Two Ways To Prepare Fresh Chicken Thighs Without Overwhelming The Natural Flavors

Posted on: 9 November 2016

There are thousands of ways to prepare chicken, but many recipes use heavy seasonings or sauces that mask the true flavors of the chicken. If you have high-quality, organic, or pasture-raised chicken, you don't want to mask that flavor. You want to accentuate it. Here are two simple chicken thigh recipes that allow the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through.

Three-Herb and Butter Chicken

The fresh flavors of dill, rosemary, and basil come together to create a somewhat earthy flavor in this recipe. If you prefer, you can even substitute your own favorite herbs. The fat in the butter gives the finished dish a smooth mouth feel and makes every bite a real experience. Try serving this dish with some roasted potatoes or pasta on the side.

Ingredients:

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh basil, minced

Season the chicken thighs with the salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet, and bake at 375 degrees F for 20 minutes. While the chicken is baking, combine the butter and herbs in a saucepan. Heat over low heat until the butter is melted. Pour the butter mixture over the chicken thighs, and then bake them for another 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, transfer the chicken to a serving dish, and pour the butter sauce in the bottom of the pan over the chicken.

Hint of Spice Chicken

Sweetness from fresh onions and a hint of spiciness from cayenne pepper add just enough flavor to these chicken thighs. Serve these thighs with a nice rice pilaf for a light and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

  • 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 small yellow onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Slice the onion into very thin rings. Season the chicken with the salt and cayenne pepper, and place it on a baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, and then layer the onions over the chicken thighs. Bake the chicken for 25 minutes at 375 degrees F. Then, turn the oven up to 400 degrees F and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will make the chicken slightly crispy.

Any leftovers from either of these chicken dishes are delicious served on salads or sandwiches. Bon apetit!

For more information, contact companies like Sugar Valley Meats.

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