Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of German cuisine! This rosemary honey chicken recipe is not just a meal, but a flavor explosion that combines the sweet richness of honey with the aromatic essence of fresh rosemary, creating a dish so delectable that it will become an instant family favorite. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this simple yet sophisticated recipe promises to elevate your dinner game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: German
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy skin.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine honey, olive oil, chopped fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Brush the honey-rosemary mixture generously over both sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring even coating.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs if desired, and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and juicier meat.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Perfection: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from chicken thighs, which is the secret to achieving that irresistibly crispy golden-brown skin.
- Even Coating is Key: When brushing the honey-rosemary mixture, make sure to cover every inch of the chicken for maximum flavor infusion.
- Proper Spacing: Arrange chicken thighs with enough space between them on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation, ensuring uniform cooking and crispy skin.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Resting Time is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and succulent meat.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprigs not only add a beautiful presentation but also enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
