Description
This recipe for The Best Chicken Ever features perfectly seared and oven-baked bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. The chicken is first pan-seared to get a crispy, golden skin and then finished in the oven to ensure juicy, tender meat. Simple, flavorful, and versatile, this dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
Cooking fats and Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or thyme)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help achieve a crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and let them sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin turns crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the Chicken: Turn the chicken over and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes to develop color and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes for thighs, or 15-20 minutes for breasts, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Finish and Serve: Optionally drizzle with fresh lemon juice for brightness and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Use an oven-safe skillet for easy transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Cayenne pepper is optional and adds a spicy kick if desired.
- Internal chicken temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Resting the chicken before serving ensures juicier meat.
- Chicken breasts may require slightly less baking time depending on thickness.
