Description:
Roasted chicken thighs with garlic and rosemary is a comforting and aromatic dish that brings warmth to any dining table. The rich flavors of the chicken, enhanced by the fragrant garlic and earthy rosemary, create a delightful harmony that’s both satisfying and delectable.
As the chicken thighs roast in the oven, they become beautifully caramelized on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The irresistible aroma wafts through the kitchen, tantalizing the senses and beckoning everyone to gather around the dinner table.
Oven-roasting allows the chicken to cook evenly while the garlic infuses its essence throughout the dish. Fresh rosemary adds an aromatic herbal note that elevates the overall profile of the meal.
The combination is perfect, evoking memories of hearty family gatherings and home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, this roasted chicken thighs recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
- – 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- – 6 cloves of garlic, smashed and peeled
- – 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- – 2 tablespoons olive oil
- – 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- – 1 lemon (juiced, optional)
- – Additional fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crispy skin.
2. **Prepare the Chicken**: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is essential for getting that crispy skin when roasted.
3. **Season the Chicken**: In a large bowl, place the chicken thighs and drizzle with olive oil. Add the smashed garlic, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper. If you’re using lemon juice, pour that in as well. Use your hands or tongs to mix everything well, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. **Arrange in a Baking Dish**: Transfer the chicken thighs to a baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan, skin side up. Make sure to space them out to allow for even airflow and browning.
5. **Roasting**: Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken thighs. They are done when the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you want extra crispy skin, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
6. **Rest the Chicken**: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
7. **Serve**: Plate the chicken thighs, spooning some of the pan juices over the top for added flavor. Garnish with additional fresh rosemary if desired.
8. **Enjoy**: Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the hearty, rustic flavors that make this dish a true standout!
### Tips:
– **Marinating**: For deeper flavors, consider marinating the chicken in the olive oil, garlic, and rosemary for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
– **Sides**: Roasted potatoes, green beans, or a simple arugula salad pair wonderfully with this dish.
– **Variations**: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano, or add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
This roasted chicken thighs dish with garlic and rosemary is a timeless classic that is sure to become a favorite in your home. The combination of simplicity, flavor, and comfort makes it a perfect recipe to return to time and time again!