Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs – Easy & Crunchy Dinner Recipe!

Table of Contents: Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs

Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs

CRISPY PANKO CHICKEN THIGHS: The Comfort Food Classic You Need in Your Life!

Remember those Sunday dinners growing up, filled with laughter and the aroma of something delicious baking in the oven? This recipe for Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs brings that same warmth and comfort to your table.

It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner to a festive holiday gathering. If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate a classic, look no further!

This isn’t just any chicken recipe. We’re talking about incredibly juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs coated in a golden, crunchy panko crust. Forget complicated frying methods – this is a baked panko chicken recipe, meaning less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find this panko crusted chicken surprisingly easy to make. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic alternative to fried chicken when you want something a little lighter but just as satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a crispy chicken oven recipe without the fuss!

This recipe is all about achieving that perfect balance of tender, flavorful chicken and a delightfully crunchy exterior. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia while being completely achievable for today’s busy lifestyles. So, preheat your oven and let’s get cooking!

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find this recipe referred to as:

* Panko Chicken
* Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
* Japanese Fried Chicken (though this often includes different seasonings)
* Crispy Baked Chicken
* Panko Breaded Chicken Thighs

For a little variation, try adding different spices to the panko mixture – Italian seasoning, Cajun spice, or even a touch of chili powder can add a unique flavor profile. You can also explore different dipping sauces beyond the usual ketchup; a honey mustard or a spicy mayo would be delicious with this baked panko chicken.

Ingredients: Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs:

• * 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs (skin on or off, your preference!)
• * 1 cup mayonnaise
• * 1 teaspoon paprika
• * ¾ cup panko bread crumbs, or as needed (plus extra for pressing on)
• * ½ – 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• * Cooking spray or oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
• 2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a crispy crust! In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
• 3. Coat the Chicken: Coat each chicken thigh thoroughly with the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring every surface is covered.
• 4. Panko Time!: Place the panko bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge each mayonnaise-coated chicken thigh in the panko, pressing firmly to ensure the crumbs adhere. Don’t be shy – really press them on! Add extra panko to the top of the chicken for extra crunch.
• 5. Arrange & Bake: Place the panko-crusted chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
• 6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the panko crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
• 7. Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful thigh.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 450-550 per serving (depending on thigh size and skin inclusion)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because of the mayonnaise. Yes, you read that right! Mayonnaise creates an incredibly flavorful and moist base for the panko to adhere to, resulting in a much crispier and more flavorful crust than simply using egg.

The paprika adds a beautiful color and subtle smoky flavor, while the garlic powder provides a savory depth.

This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners. For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken thighs in the mayonnaise mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) before coating them in panko. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – this will steam the chicken instead of baking it, resulting in a soggy crust.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover panko crusted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken thighs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely before baking.

Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For the crispiest results, reheat in an air fryer! This will help restore some of the crunch lost during storage.

People Also Ask: Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs

How do you get panko to stick to chicken?

Getting panko to stick is all about creating a good “glue” for it to adhere to. That’s where the mayonnaise comes in! It’s much more effective than egg in this case, providing a rich, flavorful base that the panko clings to beautifully.

Pressing the panko firmly onto the chicken is also key. Don’t just sprinkle it on – really work it into the mayonnaise coating. Adding a little extra panko on top after dredging can also help ensure a thorough coating for this baked panko chicken.

Is it better to bake or fry panko chicken?

While fried panko chicken is undeniably delicious, baking offers a healthier and less messy alternative. This crispy chicken oven recipe delivers a remarkably similar result, with a satisfyingly crunchy crust and juicy interior. Frying requires more oil and attention, while baking allows you to set it and forget it (mostly!).

What temperature do you bake panko chicken at?

We recommend baking panko chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C). This temperature is high enough to create a golden brown and crispy crust without drying out the chicken.

How do you make panko chicken extra crispy?

Several factors contribute to extra crispy panko chicken. First, ensure the chicken is thoroughly dry before coating. Second, press the panko firmly onto the chicken. Third, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Finally, a light spray of cooking oil over the panko crust before baking can help it crisp up even more.

Conclusion: Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs

So there you have it – a foolproof recipe for incredibly Crispy Panko Chicken Thighs that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to make it your own. I truly believe this is a recipe you’ll make again and again.

I’d love to hear how your panko crusted chicken turns out! Share your photos and comments below – I’m always happy to connect with fellow food lovers.

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