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Extra Crispy Irish Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs Recipe

4.8 from 122 reviews

Enjoy extra crispy, oven-fried Irish-style chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk and coated with a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, flour, and spices. This easy baked recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly crunchy crust—ideal for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Coating

  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Finishing

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
  2. Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, immerse the chicken thighs in buttermilk and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step tenderizes and infuses flavor into the chicken.
  3. Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and garlic powder until combined evenly.
  4. Coat Chicken: Remove each chicken thigh from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then thoroughly dredge in the breadcrumb mixture to ensure every surface is coated well.
  5. Arrange and Butter: Place the coated chicken thighs spaced out on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the tops to help create an extra crispy golden crust.
  6. Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Marinating in buttermilk is key for tender and juicy chicken.
  • Use a thermometer to check internal temperature for food safety and best results.
  • Drizzling melted butter before baking helps crisp the breading beautifully.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the coating mix.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, oven-fried chicken, Irish chicken recipe, buttermilk chicken, baked chicken recipe, crispy chicken, easy dinner