Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and hearty dish – Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs. This recipe brings together the tender, juicy flavors of chicken thighs with a rich, savory coating, making it perfect for any meal.

Let’s make this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

What are Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs?

Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs is a flavorful twist on the traditional city chicken, which typically uses pork. This version uses chicken thighs, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection. The result is a juicy, tender dish with a crispy exterior that’s perfect for any occasion.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Flavorful: The seasoning blend creates a rich and savory taste.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.

Juicy and Tender: Chicken thighs stay moist and delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten

2 cups breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for drizzling

Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs Ingredients Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: Substitute with chicken breasts or drumsticks if preferred.
All-Purpose Flour: Use whole wheat flour, almond flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.

Eggs: Replace with a mixture of 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 2.5 tablespoons water for a vegan alternative.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Cheese: Substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or omit it entirely.

Garlic Powder: Use fresh minced garlic or garlic salt.
Onion Powder: Substitute with fresh minced onion or shallots.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

Olive Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Coatings: Set up three bowls – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat Chicken: Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Serve: Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken.

Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a fresh touch.
Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the meal.
Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice pilaf pairs perfectly with seasoned chicken.

Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a colorful side.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs

Use Bone-In Thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs retain moisture and flavor better.
Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: For a crunchier coating, double-dip the chicken in eggs and breadcrumbs.

Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Experiment with Seasonings: Customize the breadcrumb mixture with your favorite spices and herbs.

Variations of Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the breadcrumbs.

Cheesy Twist: Increase the amount of Parmesan or add shredded cheddar to the coating.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Storing Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs: Best Practices

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Labeling: Clearly label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.
Portioning: Divide into meal-sized portions for easy reheating.

Reheating Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs: Best Practices

Oven Method: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave Method: Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power.
Stovetop Method: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Avoid Drying Out: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to keep the chicken moist.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g

Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 100mg

More Yummy Recipes:

Pioneer Woman Chicken Ala King

FAQs

How do you get chicken thighs crispy in the oven?

To get chicken thighs crispy in the oven, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before coating them. Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the chicken. Additionally, drizzling olive oil over the chicken thighs helps to achieve a crispy, golden exterior.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in. However, bone-in thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in the coating?

If you need a substitute for breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even crushed cornflakes. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

How do you know when chicken thighs are fully cooked?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone.

Final Words

There you have it – a complete guide to making Pioneer Woman City Chicken Thighs. This recipe is not only simple and convenient but also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking!