• Jun 30, 2023
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Baked Citrus Chicken

Succulent chicken thighs are delicately brushed with a vibrant marinade brimming with the earthy tones of oregano and cumin, then finished with a refreshing splash of lime juice. They're baked to perfection in the oven, achieving a tender interior and a golden brown exterior. The result is a delicious harmony of flavors, with every bite transporting your taste buds on a savory culinary journey.

• 7 ingredients
• 1 hour and 20 minutes
• 4 Servings

Ingredients

4 pieces of 6-ounce bone-in chicken thighs
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately from 1 lime)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 orange, sliced

Directions

1. Start by preheating the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Lay the chicken thighs on a cutting board, skin side up. Press down on the chicken to push out any excess fat. A sharp knife will come in handy to trim away this excess fat.
3. Combine the trimmed chicken thighs, dried oregano, ground cumin, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well until the chicken is thoroughly coated. This mixture can either be used immediately or covered and left to marinate in the refrigerator for up to overnight.
4. Transfer the marinated chicken and spices into a baking pan and place it in the preheated oven.
5. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and has achieved a satisfying golden-brown color.
6. Serve immediately, garnishing with slices of orange if desired.

Notes

Marinate Longer: While it's possible to marinate the chicken just before baking, allowing it to marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight will deepen the flavors.

Temperature Check: Ensure chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

Juicier Chicken: For a juicier result, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Skin Crispiness: If you want the skin to be extra crispy, you can broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly go from brown to burned.

Flavor Variation: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding garlic, smoked paprika or chili flakes can give a different flavor profile to the chicken.

Sides: This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like rice or quinoa.

Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be eaten within 3-4 days.

Nutrition Detail