Fiery Chicken Thighs

“Fiery Chicken Thighs”, a dish that promises a burning and spicy palate, can vary in spiciness according to taste. Here is an Italian version that emphasizes flavor and heat.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
• 1/2 tablespoon of chili powder (adjust according to spicy tolerance)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Grated zest of 1 lemon

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil with garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
3. Clean the chicken thighs and pat them dry with kitchen paper, then fully immerse them in the marinade, ensuring they are well covered.
4. Arrange the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle over the lemon juice and zest.
5. Bake the chicken thighs for about 40-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy and the chicken is well cooked inside (you can check the doneness by cutting near the bone; the juices should be clear and without traces of red).
6. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Fun Fact

Smoked paprika is a widely used ingredient in Spanish cuisine, especially in the preparation of chorizo. It gives the chicken a rustic and aromatic note, which pleasantly contrasts with the heat of the chili. In customizing this dish, you might consider adding an Italian touch with a pinch of fresh rosemary or serving it with a side of grilled bell peppers dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to balance the spiciness with a sweet and sour note.