Table of Contents: Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

SPICY CHILI CRISP CHICKEN THIGHS: A Flavor Explosion You’ll Crave!

Remember those family dinners where the aroma alone brought everyone to the table? This Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs recipe aims to recreate that feeling – a comforting, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. If you’re looking for a dish that’s a little different, a little exciting, and a whole lot delicious, you’ve come to the right place.

This isn’t your average chicken recipe; it’s a vibrant, umami-rich experience that will quickly become a new favorite.

Introduction: Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Do you crave a little heat and a lot of flavor? Then prepare to fall in love with these Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs! This recipe takes humble chicken thighs and elevates them to something truly special with the magic of chili crisp.

We’re talking crispy skin, juicy meat, and a glorious, tingling spice that will leave you wanting more. This chili oil chicken thighs recipe is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual get-together with friends, or even a festive holiday meal.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. While the flavor profile is complex and exciting, the preparation is straightforward. It’s a fantastic option for cooks of all levels, and it’s guaranteed to impress. We’ll be using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, and pairing them with tender-crisp broccoli for a complete and satisfying meal.

Looking for spicy chicken recipes that deliver on both flavor and ease? Look no further! This recipe is a game-changer. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the first bite, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find similar recipes under names like “Crispy Chili Chicken,” “Honey Chili Chicken Thighs,” or “Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs.” Some variations include adding different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.

For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of chili crisp used, or substitute it with a milder chili oil. If you’re a fan of Korean flavors, consider adding a tablespoon of gochujang to the marinade for an extra layer of complexity.

Ingredients: Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor sensation:

* 1/4 cup Chili Crisp
* 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* 1/4 cup honey
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 medium red onion, sliced
* 2 large broccoli crowns (about 1 1/2 pounds total), cut into florets
* 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
* 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (4 to 6)

* Sliced scallions or chopped fresh cilantro, for serving (optional)
* Cooked rice, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the chili crisp, 1/4 cup olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar. This is the flavor base for our incredible chili crisp chicken recipe.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Roast the Broccoli: In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Spread the broccoli in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
5. Arrange the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side up, on the other side of the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

6. Roast: Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. The broccoli should be tender-crisp.
7. Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with sliced scallions or chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with cooked rice.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 650 per serving (estimated)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because of the beautiful balance of flavors. The chili crisp provides a complex heat and umami, the honey adds sweetness, and the apple cider vinegar provides a touch of tanginess. Roasting the chicken skin-side up ensures maximum crispiness, while the broccoli gets perfectly tender-crisp alongside. This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners that everyone will enjoy.

Chef’s Tip: For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – this will steam the chicken instead of roasting it. If you want to kick up the heat even more, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover chili crisp chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat. The broccoli may lose some of its crispness when reheated, but it will still be delicious.

People Also Ask: Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

What is chili crisp made of?

Chili crisp is a condiment originating from Sichuan, China. It’s typically made from a base of chili oil infused with crispy fried garlic, shallots, and often fermented soybeans (doubanjiang). Many varieties also include other ingredients like sesame seeds, peanuts, and various spices.

The texture is key – you want a crunchy, flavorful oil that adds both heat and complexity to your dishes. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used on everything from eggs to noodles to, of course, chicken!

Is chili crisp the same as chili oil?

While both chili crisp and chili oil involve chili peppers infused in oil, they are not quite the same. Chili oil is generally a simpler infusion of chili flakes in oil, whereas chili crisp has a more complex texture and flavor profile due to the addition of crispy fried ingredients like garlic and shallots. Chili crisp offers a more substantial bite and a wider range of flavors than chili oil.

How do you use chili crisp on chicken?

There are many ways to use chili crisp on chicken! This recipe uses it as a marinade, which infuses the chicken with flavor during cooking. You can also drizzle it over cooked chicken as a finishing sauce, or even mix it into a glaze. It’s fantastic on fried chicken, grilled chicken, or roasted chicken. The possibilities are endless!

How do you make chicken thighs extra spicy?

To make these spicy chicken recipes even spicier, you can increase the amount of chili crisp used in the marinade. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some finely chopped fresh chili peppers (like Thai chilies) to the marinade. For a real kick, consider using a spicier variety of chili crisp.

Conclusion: Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs

So there you have it – a truly delicious and satisfying Spicy Chili Crisp Chicken Thighs recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice level and add your own personal touch. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Share your photos and tag me on social media – I love seeing your culinary creations.