Well-done thighs baked in the oven

Oven-baked chicken thighs with orange - a delicious and simple recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

If you are looking for a chicken thigh recipe that is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, you have come to the right place! Oven-baked chicken thighs with orange are a main dish that will impress the whole family, with rich flavors and a unique taste. This recipe perfectly combines the savory flavor of chicken with the natural sweetness of orange, resulting in a final dish that will surely be appreciated by everyone at the table.

Recipe history

Chicken thighs are a popular ingredient in kitchens worldwide, and baking them is a traditional technique used to achieve tender, juicy, and well-browned meat. Combining meat with fruits like oranges is an ancient practice that adds a touch of freshness and complexity to the flavor. This simple yet elegant recipe will take you on a culinary journey full of flavor, perfect for a Sunday lunch or a special dinner.

Ingredients

- 7 whole chicken thighs (preferably with skin for richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil (or another vegetable oil)
- 4-5 garlic cloves (sliced or crushed)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sweet or smoked paprika (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried oregano
- 1 orange (sliced)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well. Cut them in half if you prefer smaller portions or want to cook them faster. This will help the flavors penetrate and reduce cooking time.

2. Marinating: Place the thighs in a large dish or a deep bowl. Sprinkle salt and pepper over them, then add the olive oil. Mix well, ensuring that each piece of meat is evenly coated with oil.

3. Seasoning: Once the thighs are well coated with oil, sprinkle the paprika and oregano. Add the garlic slices, which will add flavor and depth to the dish. Mix again to combine the flavors.

4. Marinating: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and leave it in the refrigerator for an hour. This step is essential as it allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in tastier chicken.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). After the thighs have marinated, take the dish out of the refrigerator. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 20 minutes. This will help retain moisture, ensuring the thighs remain juicy.

6. Browning: After 20 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and let the thighs brown. Start basting them occasionally with the juices from the dish to make them even more delicious. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.

7. Adding the orange: 10-15 minutes before they are done, place the orange slices on top of the thighs. These will add a wonderful citrus flavor and make the dish even more appealing.

8. Serving: Once the thighs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can choose various sides, but creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with this dish. Additionally, a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables could complement the meal.

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use high-quality chicken thighs, preferably from local or organic sources, for better flavor. A fresh, juicy orange will make a difference in the final dish, so don’t overlook this aspect.
- Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten intolerance.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the thighs a day in advance by marinating them overnight. This will intensify the flavors and save you time on the serving day.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of oven-baked chicken thighs with orange contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development and maintaining health. Additionally, the orange adds vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other spices? Absolutely! You can experiment with spices like cumin, rosemary, or turmeric, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store leftovers? Leftover thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life before serving again.
- Can the thighs be grilled? Yes, this recipe can be adapted for grilling. Cook the thighs over medium heat, covering them with a lid to retain moisture.

Possible variations

- Lemon chicken thighs: Replace the orange with lemon for a tangier and refreshing taste.
- Adding vegetables: You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the dish, which will bake along with the thighs, adding extra flavor.

Serving suggestions

Serving these oven-baked chicken thighs with creamy mashed potatoes is a classic choice. You can also add sauces based on sour cream or Greek yogurt to create a texture contrast. Additionally, a crudité salad or a side of basmati rice will perfectly complete the meal.

Remember that cooking is an art and a pleasure, so let your imagination soar and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. With this recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with orange, you will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones!