Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia with these deliciously spiced chicken thighs. Coated in a rich berbere spice paste and baked to perfection, this recipe offers a perfect balance of heat and aromatic spices. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, it’s an ideal dish for a flavorful weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs (approx 1.5 lbs)
Marinade
- 3 teaspoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoon berbere spice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken evenly and crisply.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, berbere spice, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until you form a thick, flavorful paste that will coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Season the Chicken: Generously rub the berbere spice paste all over each chicken thigh, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Arrange the Chicken: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and place the chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer. This prevents sticking and aids in even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moister, more flavorful meat.
Notes
- For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- Serve with injera or rice and a side of sautéed greens for a complete Ethiopian-inspired meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight will deepen the flavors.
