Description
This Old Bay Chicken Thighs recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken thighs seasoned with a vibrant blend of Old Bay seasoning, tomato paste, garlic, and herbs. Perfectly baked or air-fried until crispy on the outside and tender inside, this dish is a delicious and easy main course suitable for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 Chicken thighs
Marinade
- 1 ½ Tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Garlic paste
- 1 ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- ½ Tablespoon Dried parsley
- 2 Tablespoons Avocado oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken thighs.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine avocado oil, tomato paste, Old Bay seasoning, dried parsley, onion powder, garlic paste, salt, and black pepper, mixing well until the mixture is uniform.
- Trim the chicken: Remove any hanging skin and excess fat from the chicken thighs, then place them in a mixing bowl.
- Marinate the chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs and mix thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. For enhanced flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
- Bake the chicken (oven method): Arrange the chicken thighs skin side down in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken to skin side up and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Rest the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes so the juices can redistribute for maximum moistness.
- Air fryer method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes and lightly spray the basket with oil. Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the basket and cook for 15 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 10-15 minutes, until fully cooked and skin is crispy. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to a few hours) will intensify the flavors.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Skin side down first helps render fat and crispen the skin effectively.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point and neutral flavor but can be substituted with other oils like olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
