Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Delicious Ethiopian Chicken Thighs with Berbere Spice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 38 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Ethiopian

Description

Enjoy the rich and spicy flavors of Ethiopia with this easy recipe for Chicken Thighs marinated in aromatic Berbere spice. Perfectly baked to juicy tenderness, these chicken thighs feature a vibrant blend of spices balanced with a touch of lemon juice, delivering a flavorful and aromatic dish ideal for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken thighs (approx 1.5 lbs)

Marinade

  • 3 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons berbere spice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken evenly and crisply.
  2. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, berbere spice, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until you form a thick, flavorful paste that will coat the chicken thoroughly.
  3. Season the Chicken: Generously rub the berbere spice paste all over each chicken thigh, making sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Arrange the Chicken: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and place the chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer. This prevents sticking and aids in even cooking.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  6. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moister, more flavorful meat.

Notes

  • For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Serve with injera or rice and sautéed greens for a complete Ethiopian meal experience.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level; omit if you prefer mild heat.
  • Make sure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://familytastykitchen.com/delicious-ethiopian-chicken-thighs-with-berbere-spice-recipe/