Description
Experience the vibrant and bold flavors of Ethiopia with this recipe for chicken thighs marinated in aromatic berbere spice blend. Baked to perfection, these juicy chicken thighs are infused with a spicy, tangy marinade featuring olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of cayenne. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, this dish brings authentic Ethiopian taste right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs (approx 1.5 lbs)
Marinade
- 3 teaspoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoon berbere spice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken evenly and crisply.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, berbere spice, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until you form a thick, flavorful paste that will coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Season the Chicken: Generously rub the berbere spice paste all over each chicken thigh, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Arrange the Chicken: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and place the chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer. This prevents sticking and aids in even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moister, more flavorful meat.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely and remains juicy.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
- Serve with injera bread or rice to enjoy an authentic Ethiopian meal.
- The chicken skin can be removed before serving if you prefer a lower fat option.
