Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Bourbon Citrus Chicken Thighs! This mouthwatering dish combines the rich warmth of bourbon with the zesty brightness of orange juice, creating a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a gourmet meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together bourbon, orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-4 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the liquid for basting and sauce.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-6 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs, brush with reserved marinade, and transfer skillet to preheated oven.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, basting with marinade every 10 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Reduce remaining marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until slightly thickened to create a glaze.
- Serve chicken thighs hot, drizzled with optional reduced marinade glaze, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight if time allows. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, let the marinated chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and a perfectly juicy result.
- Sear for Crispiness: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken skin-side down for 5-6 minutes creates a deliciously crispy exterior that adds texture to the dish.
- Baste for Moisture: While roasting, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade every 10 minutes. This not only keeps the chicken moist but also intensifies the flavor.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is cooked perfectly and safe to eat.
- Create a Glaze: For an extra touch of flavor, reduce the leftover marinade in a saucepan until thickened and drizzle it over the chicken before serving. It adds a beautiful shine and enhances the taste!
- Garnish for Presentation: Finish your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness that will impress your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 224kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
