Some nights just call for something with a little heat. Or if you’re me, most nights call for a lot of heat. 😉 If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors, these oven-baked chicken thighs are right up your alley.
Chicken thighs are one of my favorite cuts of meat to cook because they stay tender and flavorful, and baking them in a crispy coating makes dinner feel elevated without adding a ton of extra work. The spices bring warmth and the peppers and hot honey add brightness and just enough kick to keep you coming back for more.
Oven-Baked Spicy Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup honey mustard
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 ½ cups spicy bread crumbs
3/4 cup pickled spicy peppers, drained (banana peppers, jalapeños, fresno chili peppers, or cherry peppers)
1/4 cup hot honey (optional, for extra heat)
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.
2. Combine lemon juice, honey mustard, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, paprika, and Italian seasoning in a medium-sized bowl. Whisk until smooth. Add the chicken and coat evenly with the mixture.
3. In another medium-sized bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
4. One piece at a time, press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating completely, then place on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Top each piece of chicken with a few peppers. If using hot honey, drizzle it over the chicken.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What to Serve With Spicy Chicken Thighs
Try serving them with:
Simple Twice Baked Potatoes
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers
Miss Laura’s Kielbasa Butter Beans
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