Thai - Inspired Chicken Thighs
(for gluten free and dairy free, be sure to check all packages)
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 35 minutes (5 minutes active)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Ingredients:
1/4 cup chopped Thai basil leaves (sub cilantro if you can’t find Thai basil) or 2 TBSP Thai Seasoning Paste from Garden Gourmet
2 TBSP fish sauce
2 TBSP canola oil, divided
Zest of one lime
2 TBSP lime juice from ½ lime, save the other half to garnish and squeeze more lime juice for serving
1 TBSP dark brown sugar
¼ tsp each salt and pepper
2 pounds chicken thighs on the bone and with the skin
Directions:
In a gallon size storage bag or large bowl, combine all ingredients, except the Thai basil leaves; marinate for 30 minutes, turning the bag after 15 minutes.
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade. Put a few thai basil leaves or cilantro leaves under the skin of each chicken thigh, then save the rest for garnish.
In a heavy skillet, heat the canola oil on medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering add the chicken thighs. Cook on each side for 3 minutes to get a good sear. Lower the heat to medium, then cook an additional 5-6 minutes per side or until the chicken thighs are cooked through completely. Check that the internal temperature is 165 degrees.
Let rest for 5 minutes, then top with the rest of the thai basil or cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Suggestions and ideas:
Serve with roasted okra, and/or a garden salad.
This dish would pair well with a sauvignon blanc with citrus notes to cut through the fat, but stand up to the beautiful Thai flavors.
Bon Appetit!