Crispy Ranch-Infused Oven Chicken Thighs 🍗

Ranch Marinated Oven-fried Chicken 🍗

Overview:

Prepare to indulge in a tantalizing fusion of flavors with this Ranch Marinated Oven-fried Chicken recipe! Inspired by a desire to minimize waste and maximize taste, this dish combines the tangy goodness of buttermilk with the zesty kick of ranch dressing mix, resulting in succulent chicken thighs bursting with savory perfection. Prickled for optimal marinade absorption, each bite promises a symphony of spices that will leave your taste buds dancing. With a prep time of just 15 minutes (excluding marinating time), you’ll have this delightful meal ready to serve in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 4 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• Ranch dressing mix (1/2 envelope)
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Spray oil

Instructions:

1. Prick the Thigh Cutlets: Begin by pricking the chicken thigh cutlets all over with a fork. This step ensures optimal absorption of the flavorful marinade, allowing each bite to be infused with deliciousness.

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2. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, ranch dressing mix, and hot sauce (if using). Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a creamy and tangy marinade that will elevate the flavor profile of the chicken.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then pour the prepared marinade over them, ensuring each piece is fully coated. For maximum flavor infusion, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight for an even more intense taste experience.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), ensuring it reaches the optimal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken with a golden crispy exterior.

5. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a separate large bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, paprika, cayenne, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well to create a flavorful coating that will add depth and texture to the chicken.

6. Coat the Chicken: Once adequately marinated, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each piece into the prepared coating mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Press firmly to adhere the coating to the chicken, ensuring maximum flavor infusion.

7. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly spray the chicken with oil to promote crispiness and prevent sticking. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. For optimal results, reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) after the first 10 minutes of baking.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Pair this delectable dish with a refreshing garden salad and oven-baked wedges for a complete meal that will delight your senses and satisfy your cravings.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 650.2
• Fat Content: 36.4g
• Saturated Fat Content: 12.1g
• Cholesterol Content: 175.8mg
• Sodium Content: 913.3mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 31.8g
• Fiber Content: 2.4g
• Sugar Content: 6.6g
• Protein Content: 46.7g

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
• To ensure even cooking, arrange the chicken thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation.
• If you prefer a lighter option, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
• For a crispy golden crust, consider broiling the chicken thighs for the last few minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Conclusion:

Elevate your dinner routine with this irresistible Ranch Marinated Oven-fried Chicken recipe, where tender chicken thighs are bathed in a creamy buttermilk ranch marinade and coated in a flavorful herb and spice mixture before being baked to golden perfection. Whether enjoyed as a hearty family meal or served at your next gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and succulent texture. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every delectable bite of this mouthwatering chicken masterpiece!