If you’re craving a delicious, savory dish that’s simple to make and full of flavor, try oven-braised chicken with crispy skin. This recipe combines the best of both worlds: tender, juicy chicken and a golden, crispy exterior. It’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
Braising the chicken in the oven locks in moisture. The high heat gives the skin a perfectly crisp finish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this foolproof recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
In just a few easy steps, you’ll create a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish. Everyone will love it! Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering oven-braised chicken with crispy skin.
Table of contents
Why Choose Oven-Braised Chicken with Crispy Skin?
Perfect Texture and Tenderness
One of the main reasons to choose oven-braised chicken is its unbeatable texture. Braising slowly cooks the meat in liquid, making the chicken incredibly tender. As it simmers in its own juices or added broth or wine, the meat becomes succulent and melts in your mouth. The extended cooking time keeps the chicken moist and juicy. Meanwhile, the crispy skin contrasts with the tender meat, offering a delightful texture with each bite.
Flavor Infusion
Oven-braising doesn’t just create tender chicken—it also infuses the meat with rich flavors. Garlic, rosemary, thyme, and paprika all slowly flavor the chicken as it cooks. The braising liquid, whether it’s chicken broth, white wine, or citrus juice, adds depth and complexity. As the chicken braises, it takes on a rich, savory profile, elevating the dish into something special.
Achieving Crispy Skin without Drying Out the Meat
Another reason to choose oven-braised chicken is the ability to get crispy skin without drying out the meat. The oven’s dry heat crisps the skin, while the braising liquid keeps the chicken moist. This method offers the best of both worlds: deep, savory flavor from braising and the satisfying crunch of crispy skin. Other methods can dry out the meat, but oven-braising keeps the skin golden and crispy while preserving the chicken’s tenderness.
Simple, Hands-Off Cooking
Oven-braising is a hands-off technique. After prepping, seasoning, and searing the chicken, the oven does the work. Unlike stovetop methods that require close attention, braising in the oven allows you to set the temperature and let it cook. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal with minimal effort.
The Best Ingredients for Oven-Braised Chicken
Choosing the Right Chicken for Crispy Oven-Braised Perfection
When making oven-braised chicken, the type of chicken you choose plays a crucial role in the overall outcome. Bone-in, skin-on chicken is the best choice for this recipe for several reasons. First, bone-in chicken provides more flavor. The bones release natural flavors as the chicken braises, adding depth to the dish and helping keep the meat moist and tender. Bone-in cuts, such as thighs or drumsticks, also tend to stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts.
Skin-on chicken is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin. The skin acts as a barrier that keeps the moisture in the meat while cooking, allowing you to achieve the perfect crispy finish when it’s exposed to high heat in the oven. The skin helps lock in the natural fat, which contributes to a delicious, flavorful exterior. Boneless, skinless chicken can dry out in the oven, leaving you with a less flavorful result. By opting for skin-on, bone-in chicken, you’re ensuring that your dish has both flavor and texture in every bite.
Essential Herbs and Spices for Flavorful Oven-Braised Chicken
The flavor profile of your oven-braised chicken is built upon the herbs and spices you use. Herbs like thyme and rosemary are classic choices for braised chicken, offering an aromatic, earthy undertone that complements the savory nature of the meat. Thyme works particularly well in braised dishes because it infuses the chicken with a subtle, warm flavor. Rosemary, on the other hand, adds a pine-like freshness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken.
Garlic is another key ingredient that imparts a deep, savory flavor to the chicken. Whether you’re using whole garlic cloves or garlic powder, it blends seamlessly with the braising liquid, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Paprika can be used to add a mild smoky flavor and a hint of sweetness, while black pepper adds a bit of heat and depth. Together, these herbs and spices create a balanced and complex flavor profile, elevating the chicken and making each bite memorable.
For an added layer of flavor, you can experiment with other seasonings like bay leaves, sage, or oregano. These herbs work well with the braising technique, as their oils infuse the chicken over time, creating a robust and savory base.
Cooking Fat
The type of cooking fat you use is also essential to achieving that crispy skin while braising the chicken. Butter is a popular choice because of its rich, creamy flavor. When used for searing, it helps to brown the skin beautifully, giving it a golden, crispy texture while adding a slight richness to the overall dish. It also contributes to the flavor profile, making the chicken taste more indulgent and savory.
Olive oil is another excellent option, especially if you prefer a lighter alternative. Olive oil not only helps with browning the chicken but also adds a subtle, fruity flavor that complements the herbs and spices. If you’re looking for a more neutral flavor, vegetable or canola oil works well too. These oils have a high smoke point, which makes them ideal for the high heat required to crisp up the skin without burning.
In addition to using butter or oil for searing the chicken, consider drizzling a bit more fat over the chicken before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure the skin crisps up evenly and becomes beautifully golden. For extra richness, you can even add a small knob of butter to the braising liquid, allowing it to melt over the chicken during the cooking process.
How to Prepare and Braise Chicken for Crispy Skin
1: Seasoning Tips for Crispy Oven-Braised Chicken
Proper seasoning is key to flavor. Begin by drying the chicken with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, helping the seasoning stick. Dry skin also ensures crispiness while cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper. Salt is crucial for drawing out moisture and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken. Pepper adds a subtle heat and a hint of earthiness that balances the richness of the chicken. Be sure to season both the skin and the meat underneath for even flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: After salting and peppering, add herbs and spices. Rub fresh thyme and rosemary on the skin. These herbs infuse the chicken with aroma. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder for extra depth. For a smoky touch, try smoked paprika or lemon zest for freshness.
- Massage the Seasoning: Rub the seasoning into the skin and flesh, especially around the drumsticks and thighs. This ensures even flavor distribution.
2: Searing for Perfectly Crispy Skin on Oven-Braised Chicken
Searing enhances crispy skin and depth of flavor. It creates a golden crust and locks in juices.
- Preheat the Pan: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add butter or olive oil and heat until hot. This ensures the skin crisps immediately and doesn’t stick.
- Place the Chicken Skin-Side Down: Gently place the chicken in the pan, skin-side down. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Press lightly to ensure the skin contacts the pan for even crisping.
- Sear Until Golden: Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the skin is deep golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear for another 2-3 minutes. This step ensures a beautifully crisp exterior before braising.
3: Braising Techniques for Moist and Crispy-Skinned Chicken
Braising keeps the chicken moist and tender, while allowing the skin to crisp.
- Preheat the Oven: Before transferring the chicken to the oven, preheat it to 375°F to 400°F. This range of temperature ensures that the chicken remains moist inside while allowing the skin to crisp up. If you’re cooking multiple pieces of chicken, err on the side of the higher temperature to ensure even crisping.
- Prepare the Braising Liquid: In the same pan, add chicken broth, white wine, or water. The liquid should come up halfway on the chicken, not submerge it. This ensures moisture without affecting the crispiness.
- Add Flavor Enhancers: For extra flavor, add sprigs of rosemary, garlic cloves, and bay leaves to the liquid. These will infuse the chicken with aroma.
- Braise in the Oven: Cover the pan with a lid or foil and braise for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
- Finish Crispy Skin: Remove the lid and cook for another 10-15 minutes to crisp up the skin. You can baste the chicken during this step for added flavor.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Chicken Skin
Dry the Skin
Moisture prevents crispiness. Wet skin will steam instead of crisp, leading to a soggy exterior.
- Why Moisture Matters: Excess moisture on the skin softens it. Drying the skin allows it to crisp as it cooks.
- How to Dry the Skin: Pat the skin with paper towels, pressing gently to absorb as much moisture as possible. If you have time, leave the chicken uncovered in the fridge for 1-2 hours. This helps dry out the skin for even crispier results.
- Tip: If you have the time, consider seasoning the chicken and letting it sit uncovered in the fridge for a couple of hours or overnight. This dry-brining process helps draw out moisture from the skin, which then evaporates, leaving it much drier when it’s time to cook.
Basting and Roasting
Basting enhances crispiness and flavor. The skin releases fat as it cooks, and adding extra oil or butter helps the skin crisp more evenly.
- Basting with Fat: After searing, baste the chicken every 20-30 minutes with melted butter or olive oil. This helps the skin brown and crisps up beautifully.
- Why Basting Helps: The fat coats the skin, distributing heat and moisture evenly. This results in golden, crispy skin. Basting also enhances flavor by infusing the skin with seasoning and herbs.
- Avoid Over-Basting: Don’t over-baste, as too much liquid can soften the skin. A few well-timed bastings are enough.
- Alternative Basting: For extra flavor, use braising liquid or garlic butter with herbs. This enhances the crispiness and overall taste.
Oven Settings
The right temperature and oven position are crucial for crispy skin.
- Oven Temperature: Aim for 375°F to 400°F for braising. This range ensures the chicken stays moist while the skin crisps up.
- Preheating the Oven: Preheat the oven fully before cooking. This guarantees the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature for crispy skin.
- Position in the Oven: Place the chicken on the middle rack for even heat circulation. This helps the skin crisp without overcooking the meat.
- Finishing with High Heat: For extra crispiness, raise the temperature to 425°F to 450°F for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Broiling for Extra Crispiness: If the skin isn’t crispy enough, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning.
Serving and Pairing Your Oven-Braised Chicken
Side Dish Ideas
Oven-braised chicken with crispy skin is a rich and flavorful main dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from hearty comfort foods to light, fresh accompaniments. When thinking about side dishes, consider balancing the richness of the chicken with flavors and textures that complement its savory depth.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are an excellent choice. The caramelized edges of the vegetables enhance their natural sweetness, making them a great contrast to the crispy, savory chicken skin. You can also add Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or cauliflower to the roasting pan alongside the chicken, allowing the vegetables to absorb some of the braising juices for an extra burst of flavor.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the savory chicken. The buttery richness of the potatoes complements the crispy skin and tender meat, making for a satisfying combination. For an elevated twist, try adding garlic, cheese, or herbs to the mashed potatoes to tie in with the chicken’s seasoning.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and flavorful rice pilaf made with chicken stock, sautéed onions, and herbs makes a great accompaniment. The lightness of the rice balances the richness of the braised chicken, while the subtle flavors of the pilaf elevate the overall meal.
- Fresh Salad: If you’re looking for something lighter and fresher to offset the richness of the chicken, a simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great choice. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded plate.
- Bread: Crusty bread is also a great addition for soaking up any delicious juices or gravy that may be left over from the braising liquid. Whether it’s a baguette or a soft dinner roll, bread can add a satisfying texture and an extra element of comfort to the meal.
Alternative Serving Styles
While oven-braised chicken with crispy skin is already a meal on its own, there are many creative ways to transform it into a comforting dish for different occasions. These alternatives can help you tailor the dish to your specific cravings or those of your guests.
- With Rice: For a more filling meal, consider serving the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or wild rice. The rice will soak up the savory braising juices and complement the chicken perfectly. Adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top of the rice brings a fresh pop of flavor to the dish.
- In a Pasta Dish: Another way to elevate your braised chicken is by pairing it with pasta. Serve the chicken alongside a bowl of pappardelle, rigatoni, or fettuccine tossed in a rich sauce made from the braising liquid. You can turn the sauce into a velvety cream sauce or keep it simple with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan. This method creates a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for colder weather.
- Chicken Sandwiches: Shred the chicken and serve it on a soft bun with some of the crispy skin tucked inside. This makes for an elevated version of a classic chicken sandwich, with the rich flavors of the braised chicken and crispy skin creating a satisfying bite. You can add your favorite condiments, like mayonnaise, mustard, or a tangy barbecue sauce.
- In Tacos or Wraps: If you’re in the mood for something lighter and more handheld, shred the braised chicken and serve it in soft tortillas or wraps. Add fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, lime, and a bit of sour cream for a flavorful, easy-to-eat meal that still retains the heartiness of the chicken.
Meal Prep Benefits
One of the best things about oven-braised chicken with crispy skin is its versatility for meal prep. This dish is not only delicious but also practical when preparing meals in advance.
- Make Ahead: Oven-braised chicken actually improves in flavor the longer it sits, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken a day or two in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. When reheated, the flavors meld together beautifully, and the crispy skin can easily be refreshed in the oven for a few minutes.
- Freezing: Braised chicken can also be frozen for later use. Simply braise the chicken, allow it to cool, and then store it in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost the chicken and reheat it in the oven to crisp up the skin once more. This is a great option for busy weeks when you want a homemade meal without all the prep work.
- Flexible Portions: This recipe makes it easy to portion out multiple servings for the week. Whether you want to serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad, you can easily create a variety of meal options for lunch or dinner. With its ability to be paired with different sides, you’ll have a balanced, satisfying meal ready to go throughout the week.
- Cost-Effective: Braising is also a cost-effective way to prepare chicken. By using bone-in, skin-on pieces, you can make the dish stretch further, providing several meals from a single recipe. This makes it an excellent option for families or individuals looking to maximize their grocery budget.
Braised Chicken in the Oven with Crispy Skin
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup dry white wine or extra broth
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves or ½ tsp dried
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
- In the same pan, sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Braise in the Oven
- Return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up. Cover with a lid or foil and transfer to the oven.
- Braise for 45 minutes, then remove the lid and cook for an additional 15 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
Oven-braised chicken with crispy skin offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. Carefully select the right ingredients and season the chicken with a blend of herbs. Follow a few key steps to achieve that irresistible crispy skin. The result is a savory, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.
You can serve it alongside roasted vegetables, over rice, or in a pasta dish. This recipe is versatile and fits every occasion.
Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of perfectly braised chicken with crispy skin. Share your results, variations, or favorite pairing ideas in the comments—we’d love to hear how you make it your own!
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