THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Marinated and Fried Chicken Thighs
These juicy chicken thighs are packed with flavor thanks to a simple, tangy marinade that tenderizes the meat perfectly. Once fried to a crispy golden brown, they make an irresistible meal for any night of the week.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Marinated and Fried Chicken Thighs
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
Start by making shallow criss-cross cuts on the top of each chicken thigh using a sharp knife. This helps the marinade soak in better. Place the chicken pieces in a large glass or ceramic bowl with the scored side facing up.
02
Step 2
Next, add the yogurt, marmalade, red pepper flakes, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, lemon juice, garlic, and ginger to the bowl. Use a spatula to mix everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Don’t worry if the marinade looks a little red from the paprika—that’s totally normal. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for anywhere from 1 to 4 hours.
03
Step 3
Once marinated, take the chicken out and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
04
Step 4
When you’re ready to fry, heat about an inch of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until it reaches around 375°F (190°C). Give the chicken a gentle shake to remove some of the excess marinade—but don’t go overboard, you still want some coating left on there. Toss out any leftover marinade.
05
Step 5
Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, skin-side down first. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. A little bit of char is great—it adds a nice smoky flavor. To be sure, check that the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
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Step 6
Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and delicious.
Why you’ll love it
This dish is packed with bold flavors from the marinade that soak deep into the meat. The frying creates a crispy, golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
How to serve
Serve these flavorful pieces with a side of fresh coleslaw or a light salad to balance the richness. They also pair well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a simple rice dish for a complete meal.
Storage & leftovers
Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness instead of using a microwave.
