Introducing a delectable recipe for Spicy-sweet chicken thighs, infused with flavors that tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more! This dish promises a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy notes, perfectly complemented by the succulent tenderness of chicken thighs. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, you can whip up this culinary masterpiece in just under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup lemon juice 🍋
- 2 tablespoons molasses 🍯
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 🥃
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 8 skinless chicken thighs 🍗
- Salt, to taste 🧂
- Pepper, to taste 🌶️
- Lemon wedges, for serving 🍋
Instructions:
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Marinating the Chicken:
- Begin by combining the lemon juice, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and chicken thighs in a plastic zip-lock bag. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring that the marinade coats the chicken evenly.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse and develop. During this time, remember to turn the bag occasionally to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated.
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Preparation and Cooking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for the next steps.
- Once the marinating time is complete, remove the chicken from the bag, reserving the marinade for later use.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish, ensuring that they are placed in a single layer for even cooking. You can lightly coat the baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken thighs, allowing the flavorful mixture to envelop each piece. Sprinkle with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
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Baking the Chicken:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for the initial 20 minutes.
- After the first 20 minutes, carefully baste the chicken thighs with the marinade from the baking dish. This step ensures that the chicken remains moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden brown and tender, with the juices running clear when pierced with a fork.
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Serving:
- Once the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and succulent texture.
- Serve the spicy-sweet chicken thighs hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrusy flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp garden salad.
With its irresistible combination of bold flavors and tender chicken, these spicy-sweet chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite! Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests on the weekend, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and delicious results. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of this mouthwatering dish, and savor every bite of its juicy goodness! 🍗🍋
