You need to try this Five-Spice Chicken Thighs Recipe! With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress.
The aromatic blend of five-spice powder, garlic, and other seasonings gives these chicken thighs a deliciously unique taste that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
Plus, the best part? It’s as easy as seasoning the chicken and popping it into the oven. So, let’s dive into this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe!
What makes this 5-Spice Chicken so special?
What sets Five-Spice Chicken Thighs apart is the star of the show: the five-spice seasoning mix.
This aromatic blend typically includes a harmonious combination of Star anise, Cloves, Cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and Fennel seeds.
When combined with garlic and other seasonings, it creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor.
The result is a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet, making it a versatile option for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Nutritional Attributes:
This Five-Spice Chicken offers a flavorful blend of spices, each contributing to its unique taste and potential health benefits.
Cinnamon provides antioxidants, cloves reduce inflammation, fennel seeds support digestion, star anise offers antimicrobial properties, and Szechuan peppercorns add a spicy kick.
So when you enjoy these chicken thighs, you’re not just tasting something delicious—you might also be helping your body stay healthy.
How to make Five Spice Chicken?
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the minced garlic, five-spice powder, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for better flavor. - Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly brush a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. - Bake the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish or skillet. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, but watch closely to prevent burning. - Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices. Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients:
Main ingredients:
Protein:
- 3 Chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on: Provides juiciness and flavor. It’s best to use thighs for their higher fat content, which keeps the meat tender and moist.
Aromatics & Seasoning:
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and savory taste.
- 1/2 tsp Five-Spice Powder: Brings a unique blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
The five-spice powder typically contains: Cinnamon Cloves, Fennel Seeds, Star Anise, and Szechuan Peppercorns. - 1 tsp Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor.
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing Wine: Enhances the marinade with a rich, slightly sweet taste.
- 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and taste.
Cooking:
- 1/2 tbsp Vegetable Oil: Prevents the chicken from sticking to the baking dish.
Tips and Tricks:
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- To achieve extra crispy skin, use the broiler for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Pair this dish with simple sides like steamed rice or fresh salads to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
FAQ:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
It’s better to use chicken thighs because they are juicier and more flavorful.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 15 minutes, but you can marinate them overnight for the best flavor.
Five Spice Chicken Thighs
Ingredients Â
- 3 Chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp Five-Spice Powder
- 1 tsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing Wine
- 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
InstructionsÂ
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the minced garlic, five-spice powder, sesame oil, Chinese rice wine, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved and all ingredients are well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each thigh is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. For best results, you can marinate the chicken overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly brush a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet with 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish or skillet.Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken thighs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To achieve an extra crispy skin, you can turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
- Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices. Serve the five-spice chicken thighs hot with your choice of side dishes, such as steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.