Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering salt-free baked chicken recipe that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs nestled on a bed of caramelized apple slices, infused with aromatic rosemary and thyme. This recipe isn't just a meal - it's a flavor adventure that proves healthy cooking can be incredibly delicious and simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 apples, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin during baking.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper to create a herb seasoning blend.
- Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. Then generously sprinkle the herb mixture over both sides of the chicken.
- Slice apples into thin, even wedges, removing the core and seeds. Arrange apple slices in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place seasoned chicken thighs on top of the apple slices, skin side up. The apples will help keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check the chicken's doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear when fully cooked.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Serve hot, with the roasted apple slices as a delicious accompaniment. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- • Always pat your chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden skin • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken - aim for 165°F internal temperature • Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep the meat juicy and tender • Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best roasting results • For extra flavor, try toasting your herbs briefly in a dry pan before mixing with olive oil • If you prefer crispier chicken skin, you can briefly broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking • Experiment with different herb combinations to customize the flavor profile to your liking
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
