Perfectly Crispy Cast Iron Chicken Thighs: Simple & Flavorful
Looking for an easy, delicious weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep but delivers on flavor? This Cast Iron Chicken Thighs recipe is just what you need! With only a few ingredients, including Unkie's Seasoning Blend, and a trusty cast iron skillet, you can make perfectly crispy-skinned chicken thighs that are tender and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Unkie's Seasoning Blend
- Olive oil
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy skin.
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Lightly coat both sides of the chicken thighs with olive oil and generously season them with Unkie’s Seasoning Blend. The seasoning will create a delicious crust while the olive oil helps crisp up the skin.
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Arrange the chicken thighs, skin side up, in a cast iron skillet. The cast iron distributes heat evenly, helping to achieve the ideal crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
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Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow, steady cook time allows the flavors to develop while ensuring that the chicken becomes perfectly tender.
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Remove the skillet from the oven and serve immediately. The skin will be golden and crispy, while the chicken inside will be moist and flavorful.
Notes:
- No cast iron skillet? No problem! You can use a casserole dish or any other oven-safe dish you have on hand. The results will still be delicious.
- Pro Tip: When the chicken is done, the skin should be crispy, and the meat tender enough to fall off the bone.
- Safety Tip: Avoid using pans with rubber or plastic handles, as they can melt in the oven and potentially cause a fire hazard.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Cast Iron Chicken Thighs recipe is as simple as it gets, but the results are impressive. The cast iron skillet helps lock in moisture while creating a crispy, golden skin that everyone will love. With just a handful of ingredients, including Unkie’s Seasoning Blend, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion—from a casual weeknight dinner to a weekend family meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these chicken thighs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also shred the chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or meal prep for the week!
Why Use a Cast Iron Skillet?
Cast iron skillets are ideal for recipes like this because they retain and distribute heat evenly, which ensures that your chicken thighs cook perfectly—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. Plus, they can go straight from stovetop to oven, making them a versatile kitchen tool.
With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up these crispy, flavorful Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!