Wolfgang Puck Crispy Chicken Thigh Recipe

If you want crispy chicken thighs with juicy meat, Wolfgang Puck’s method is your new best friend (besides me, of course!).

Wolfgang’s and my tips?

Cooking the thighs skin-side down in a cast-iron pan without moving them for the first several minutes locks in that crisp crust.

A mix of butter and high-heat oil, like avocado or grapeseed, helps the skin turn golden without burning.

I always season under the skin as well as on top so every bite has the right amount of seasoning, not just the surface.

Let’s make this!

How to Make Wolfgang Puck Crispy Chicken Thigh

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 Lemon (juiced)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit to get that initial, crucial blast of heat.

Step 2:

Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper.

This base seasoning is critical for enhancing the meat’s flavor.

Step 3:

Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add olive oil.

You want the oil to be shimmering before you add the chicken.

Step 4:

Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan.

Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Step 5:

Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Add lemon juice and rosemary in the last few minutes for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Quality Thighs

Selecting high-quality chicken thighs can significantly make a difference in flavor and texture.

I find that organic or farm-raised chicken offers unparalleled taste.

Avoid Overcrowding the Pan

When you cook the thighs, avoid cramming them into the pan.

This ensures each piece browns properly and develops that irresistible crisp!

Monitor Oven Temperature

Make sure to keep an eye on your oven’s temperature to maintain consistent cooking.

Frequent temperature checks can save your chicken from becoming too dry.

Resting Before Cutting

Letting the chicken rest for at least five minutes makes a big difference.

Resting helps retain those delicious juices when you cut into the meat.

Experiment with Herbs

Changing the herbs can add a new twist to this recipe.

Try adding thyme or oregano for different flavor profiles!

What to Serve with Wolfgang Puck Crispy Chicken Thigh Recipe

Mashed Potatoes

A classic side that never goes out of style is mashed potatoes.

They are creamy and pair wonderfully with the juiciness of crispy chicken thighs.

You can add a bit of garlic or herbs like rosemary to give them a bit of a boost.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Roasted brussel sprouts bring a hearty, earthy flavor that’s fantastic with crispy chicken thighs.

Simply toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them to brown them up nicely.

This side dish is always a reliable option for rounding out your meal.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is another great choice, and its slightly charred flavor complements the richness of the chicken.

Add some lemon juice for a bright touch!

Make sure to toss them in a bit of olive oil before grilling to get that perfect charred finish.

Sweet Potato Fries

For something a bit unusual, how about some sweet potato fries?

They offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, and they’re a hit with both adults and kids alike.

You can season them with a pinch of paprika or cinnamon to add a hint of spice.

Pickled Vegetables

If you want to try something really different, go for some pickled vegetables.

The tangy flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the savory and crispy chicken.

Cucumber pickles or a mix of pickled carrots and radishes can work exceptionally well.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Cuts and Proteins

While chicken thighs offer a rich and juicy flavor, you can experiment with other cuts like drumsticks or even a whole chicken.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken breast, although it might not provide the same crispy skin.

For a vegetarian twist, use tofu or tempeh, keeping the same seasoning for a delicious outcome.

Alternate Seasonings

If you’re not a fan of black pepper, consider using white pepper or cayenne for a different heat profile.

To add an aromatic kick, sprinkle some smoked paprika or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Sauce Variations

You can switch the flavors with a garlic soy glaze or a mix of sesame oil and sugar-free maple syrup for an Asian-inspired dish.

For a citrusy zing, add a splash of light orange juice to your marinade or glaze.

Oil Alternatives

Instead of traditional cooking oil, experiment with avocado oil for a smooth, buttery flavor or grapeseed oil for a high-heat option.

How to Store Leftover Wolfgang Puck Crispy Chicken Thigh Recipe

Storing leftovers properly is key to keeping them fresh and tasty next time you are going to eat them.

There is nothing worse than dried-out chicken that has lost its charm!

Here are my best tips for keeping those crispy chicken thighs just as delicious as the first time around.

Use Airtight Containers

First, store the chicken thighs in airtight containers to help maintain their moisture and prevent them from drying out in the fridge.

You want to make sure they’re stored neatly to prevent any unwelcome fridge odors.

Refrigerate Promptly

Place the chicken thighs in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to keep them safe and fresh.

Keep them in the coldest part of your fridge, usually the back, for best results.

Freeze for Longer Storage

If you won’t eat the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing them.

Wrap each thigh in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

This method helps preserve their flavor and texture.

Don’t forget to write the date on the bag so you know when they were stored!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

You definitely don’t want to overcrowd the pan while cooking your chicken thighs!

When the pieces are too close together, they can steam instead of roast, making the skin less crispy.

It’s worth cooking in batches if needed to achieve the perfect crispiness for each piece.

Turning Too Frequently

Another common mistake is flipping the chicken too often.

Just be patient and fight the urge!

Allow each side to brown before turning to get that desired crispy texture on the outside that everyone loves.

Not Preheating the Oven

Skipping the preheating step might seem like you’re saving time, but it can actually lead to uneven cooking.

Make sure your oven is hot enough before placing the chicken inside to get them cooked evenly all through.

A well-heated oven is essential for achieving that crisp, golden skin!