Spiced Pumpkin Whiskey Chicken Thighs with Maple Butter Drizzle
Cooking method
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the spice mixture.
In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, whiskey, cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Be sure to taste as you go to ensure a balanced flavor.
3. Coat the chicken.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coat for optimal flavor.
4. Sear the chicken.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
5. Bake to perfection.
Flip the chicken thighs over, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Prepare the maple butter.
While the chicken is baking, melt the butter and maple syrup together in a small saucepan over low heat until combined.
7. Drizzle and serve.
Once the chicken is done, drizzle the maple butter over the cooked thighs and serve while hot. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors!
What to serve it with
To elevate your meal even further, consider serving the spiced pumpkin whiskey chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or wild rice complement the flavors beautifully. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite whiskey to enhance those warming notes!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your delicious chicken thighs, allow them to cool down slightly before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them in the future, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure to properly reheat them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
For a little extra touch, consider brining the chicken thighs the night before to enhance moisture and flavor. Another tip is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Creative twists
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe! Add a hint of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or switch out the whiskey for bourbon to add a different depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative, you could use skinless chicken thighs or even swap in turkey thighs for a leaner option.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 10–15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of about 30–35 minutes.
Can I substitute the whiskey?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, try apple juice or apple cider for a delightful, alcohol-free flavor.
What’s the best way to ensure my chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Time to gather those ingredients and dive into this comforting, flavor-packed dish!
Spiced Pumpkin Whiskey Chicken Thighs
A cozy dish combining pumpkin, warming spices, and whiskey, perfect for autumn dinners.
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp whiskey (Can be substituted with apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, whiskey, cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coat.
Searing and Baking
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs over, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Maple Butter Drizzle
- While the chicken is baking, melt the butter and maple syrup together in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Once the chicken is done, drizzle the maple butter over the cooked thighs and serve hot.
Brining chicken thighs the night before enhances moisture and flavor. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking for succulence.
