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Slam Dunk Chicken Thighs Recipe

Slam Dunk Chicken Thighs Recipe


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4.9 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Slam Dunk Chicken Thighs bring bold Korean-inspired flavors to dinner tables with irresistible marinades and crispy textures. Tender chicken thighs glazed in sweet and spicy sauce promise a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 3 pounds (1.36 kilograms) chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) pineapple juice
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) soy sauce
  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) water

Flavor and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar, packed
  • ⅓ cup (80 milliliters) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Fresh pineapple slices, for garnish (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced for garnish (optional)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Ignite the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position chicken thighs in a spacious baking vessel, creating a single-layer arrangement.
  2. Craft a robust marinade by merging pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a saucepan over medium flame.
  3. Allow the liquid concoction to gently bubble, transforming into a rich, aromatic sauce while stirring intermittently.
  4. Create a silky thickening agent by whisking cornstarch with water, then gradually incorporate into the simmering sauce, continuously stirring until the mixture develops a luxurious, glossy consistency.
  5. Lavishly drench the chicken thighs with the prepared sauce, ensuring each piece receives an even, generous coating.
  6. Transfer the baking dish into the heated oven, allowing the chicken to roast for approximately 50 minutes, periodically basting to enhance caramelization and flavor development.
  7. Verify the chicken’s doneness by confirming an internal temperature of 165°F, witnessing the sauce transform into a glistening, sticky glaze.
  8. Extract from the oven and permit a brief resting period to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Elevate the presentation by adorning with vibrant pineapple slices, delicate green onion slivers, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Achieve mouthwatering caramelization by basting chicken midway through cooking, creating a glossy, flavor-packed exterior that seals in juiciness.
  • Transform ordinary chicken thighs into a restaurant-quality dish with a sweet-savory sauce that balances pineapple’s brightness and umami-rich soy sauce.
  • Ensure food safety by checking the internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F, guaranteeing tender, perfectly cooked meat every single time.
  • Create a foolproof cornstarch slurry that instantly thickens the sauce, preventing lumps and delivering a silky-smooth glaze that clings beautifully to each chicken piece.
  • Elevate presentation with vibrant garnishes like fresh pineapple slices, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds that add color, texture, and complementary flavors.
  • Maximize flavor development by allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce, concentrating its delicious tropical-inspired profile before coating the chicken.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 457
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg