These garlic and basil baked chicken thighs are packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken thighs marinated in a garlic and basil marinade, then baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped basil, olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Pour the marinade over the chicken and rub it in evenly, making sure to coat each piece completely.
- Cover the dish with foil and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Once marinated, remove the foil and place the chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For a crispy skin, set the oven to broil and broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
- Serve the garlic and basil baked chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
