Description
This Crispy Baked Chicken with Giardiniera recipe features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs coated in a flavorful blend of Italian-style breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and spices, then baked to golden, crispy perfection. Topped with tangy, chopped giardiniera in the final minutes of baking, this dish brings a delightful mix of textures and a spicy, briny kick. Perfect for an easy, satisfying Italian-American main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
- 1 cup giardiniera (drained and chopped)
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper for baking sheet
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Mix Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Coat Chicken: Brush each chicken thigh lightly with olive oil. Then, press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thorough and even coating over the skin side.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- Bake Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the breadcrumb coating is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure doneness.
- Add Giardiniera Topping: During the last 5 minutes of baking, spoon chopped giardiniera evenly over each chicken thigh. Return to the oven to heat the topping through and meld flavors.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Extra giardiniera can be offered on the side for added flavor and spice.
Notes
- For a spicier flavor, substitute regular giardiniera with hot giardiniera.
- You may use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead, adjusting baking time accordingly until cooked through.
- This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
