Description

This Crispy Baked Chicken with Giardiniera recipe features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk, coated in a flavorful Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with spicy or mild giardiniera for a tangy, vibrant finish, this dish delivers a crispy, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup buttermilk
Salt and black pepper to taste

Breading

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking and Topping

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup giardiniera (drained and roughly chopped)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight to deepen the flavor and tenderize the meat.
Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Press each thigh evenly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a full coating for maximum crispiness.
Arrange and Oil: Place the coated chicken thighs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crunchy crust during baking.
Bake the Chicken: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Add Giardiniera Topping: In the last 5 minutes of baking, spoon the drained, chopped giardiniera over each thigh. Return to the oven to warm the topping through without losing crispiness.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of crispy chicken and vibrant giardiniera flavors.

Notes

You can substitute boneless thighs or chicken breasts; just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure proper cooking.
Spicy giardiniera provides a flavorful kick, but mild versions work well if you prefer less heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American