Spicy and Flavorful Calabrian Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the robust and spicy flavors of Chef John's Calabrian Chicken. This simple recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a medley of aromatic spices and the heat of Calabrian chili paste. With a rich and flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for those who crave a little kick in their meals. Try this easy-to-follow recipe and bring a taste of Calabria to your dining table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, paprika, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried basil, and cayenne pepper.
3. Pat dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel and season them with the spice mixture on both sides.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and transfer the chicken thighs to a plate. Set aside.
8. Place the skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat.
9. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
10. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
11. Stir in Calabrian chili paste and honey. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
12. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in butter until melted.
13. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and coat them with the sauce.
14. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
15. Serve hot and enjoy!

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