Oven-baked marinated thighs

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Marinated in Honey and Sesame

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total: Approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the delicious aroma of oven-baked chicken thighs, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside? This honey and sesame marinated chicken thigh recipe is a perfect choice for a quick yet impressive dinner. The flavorful marinade, combining the sweetness of honey with oil, mustard, and lemon juice, turns every bite into an explosion of flavors. Additionally, chicken thighs are rich in protein, making them a healthy choice for the whole family.

Necessary Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs (you can use either drumsticks or thighs, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons of mustard (preferably Dijon for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of honey (choose a natural honey for a more authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds (for a delightful crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary (or fresh, if you prefer)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or another vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of one lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

Preparing the Marinade

1. Mix the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the mustard, honey, olive oil, and lemon juice. Use a fork or whisk to mix the ingredients well until the mixture is smooth.

2. Add the flavors: Incorporate the dried rosemary, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Taste the marinade and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a stronger flavor, add a bit more mustard or lemon.

Marinating the Thighs

3. Prepare the thighs: Rinse the chicken thighs under cold running water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin at the end.

4. Marinating: Place the thighs in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring each thigh is well coated. Seal the container or bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, let them marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor.

Cooking the Thighs

5. Preheat the oven: Before removing the thighs from the refrigerator, preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). This temperature will help brown the thighs and enhance the texture.

6. Arrange in the baking dish: Remove the thighs from the marinade and place them in a baking dish. You can also pour a little of the remaining sauce over the thighs for added flavor.

7. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the thighs for 45-50 minutes, until they are golden and crispy. Check periodically to ensure they are cooked through, using a meat thermometer (the internal temperature should be 75°C).

Serving

8. Finished dish: Once the thighs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they remain juicy.

9. Serving suggestions: You can serve the thighs with a side of grilled vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. A fresh salad will add a pleasant contrast and make the meal more balanced.

Final Notes

This honey and sesame marinated oven-baked chicken thigh recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment. You can add a few crushed garlic cloves to the marinade for a stronger flavor or substitute sesame seeds with chopped nuts for added texture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits: One serving of chicken thighs contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the size of the thighs and the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the baking time will be shorter. Check the meat after 25-30 minutes.
- What other spices can I add? You can try spices like paprika, cumin, or even curry to give the recipe an interesting twist.
- How can I store cooked thighs? Cooked thighs can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later use.

Conclusion

This honey and sesame marinated oven-baked chicken thigh recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor. With accessible ingredients and an easy preparation process, you’ll bring a dish worthy of celebrations or a weekend dinner to your table. So, put on your apron and enjoy cooking!