Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East right to your dinner table! Our Spiced Chicken Thighs with Garlic Tahini Yogurt is not just a meal; it's an experience that will leave your guests begging for seconds. With a perfect blend of spices and a creamy, zesty yogurt sauce, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be a showstopper!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better seasoning absorption.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt to create a spice marinade.
- Thoroughly coat each chicken thigh with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and place a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, cooking for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While chicken is cooking, prepare the garlic tahini yogurt by combining tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.
- Whisk the tahini mixture until smooth, adding a little water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Once chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Plate the chicken thighs, drizzle with garlic tahini yogurt, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips
- Dry the Chicken Well: Patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.
- Marinate for Flavor: If you have extra time, consider marinating the chicken thighs for at least an hour (or overnight) to enhance the flavors even more.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet not only sears the chicken beautifully but also retains heat well, ensuring an even cook.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Adjust Tahini Consistency: If your garlic tahini yogurt is too thick, simply whisk in a little water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Serve with Sides: Consider pairing this dish with a light salad or fluffy couscous to make a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 180mg
