Fall-Off-the-Bone Chicken

Enjoy the ultimate Fall-Off-the-Bone Chicken, a mouthwatering dish made with juicy, tender bone-in chicken thighs. This easy recipe features a perfect blend of paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and savory flavor. Baked low and slow, then broiled to crispy perfection, this chicken is ideal for family dinners, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests. The result is a flavorful, moist chicken with crispy skin, guaranteed to impress. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for lovers of simple, delicious chicken recipes!

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken. Toss the chicken well to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Marinate:
   • Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in an oven-safe baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to marinate.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
   • Take the chicken thighs out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
   • Bake the chicken, covered with foil, for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is super tender and moist.
5. Crisp the Skin:
   • Once baked, remove the foil and spoon out the juices from the baking dish. Set the juices aside for later use.
   • Turn the oven to broil and return the chicken to the oven. Broil for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken skin is crisp and golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the chicken thighs with the reserved pan juices and garnish with chopped chives, if desired.

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Tips

• For even more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight for a deeper infusion of spices.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should read 165°F when fully cooked.
• If you prefer extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for a few more minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for a little heat.
• Herb Variation: Swap the chives for fresh rosemary or thyme for a different herbal flavor.
• Chicken Legs or Breasts: This recipe works well with other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or chicken breasts, though cooking times may vary.

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FAQs

Can I make this chicken in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge and bake it the next day. Just ensure to follow the broiling step for crispy skin before serving.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the baking time will be shorter. Be sure to check for doneness with a thermometer.

What should I do with the pan juices?
The pan juices are perfect for drizzling over the chicken for extra flavor or serving as a sauce on the side.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair this fall-off-the-bone chicken with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Serve with a simple green salad for a lighter side dish.
• Add some cornbread to round out the Southern-inspired meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Moist: The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken thighs come out perfectly tender and juicy every time.
• Crispy and Flavorful Skin: Broiling the chicken at the end gives the skin a delicious crispy finish that enhances the flavor.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.