Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that bursts with flavor and takes just 45 minutes to prepare? Introducing "Chicken Baked with Five Spice Oriental" — a savory delight that combines the aromatic essence of five spice powder with the sweetness of honey and the umami of soy sauce. This Asian-inspired recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for impressing your family or guests. Dive into the world of culinary adventure and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons five spice powder
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine five spice powder, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk ingredients until well blended.
- Generously coat each chicken thigh with the five spice marinade, ensuring complete coverage on both sides. Let marinate for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Place marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. Pair with steamed rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Make sure to remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and ensures that the skin turns out crispy.
- Preheat Properly: Don't skip preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that golden, crispy skin that makes this dish irresistible.
- Dry Chicken for Crispiness: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in the five spice mixture for at least 10 minutes. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Space It Out: When placing the marinated chicken on the baking sheet, make sure to leave space between each piece. This allows for proper heat circulation, ensuring even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after baking. This step is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh burst of flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your Chicken Baked with Five Spice Oriental alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 271kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg