Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your roasting tray with parchment paper or a light grease.
2. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Generously rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Place the seasoned chicken on the tray, arranging the blood orange slices and fennel around and underneath the thighs.
5. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fennel and orange slices, and give them a light sprinkle of salt.
6. Roast everything in the oven for 35–40 minutes or until the chicken is beautifully golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. Finish by sprinkling with chopped fennel fronds and garnishing with thyme, if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

The beauty of Spiced Chicken Thighs with Blood Orange & Fennel lies not just in its flavor, but also in how you serve it. Consider plating the chicken on a bed of roasted veggies or fragrant couscous for a complete meal. Pair it with a refreshing green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices. This dish can also shine at dinner parties, impressing guests with its vibrant colors and aroma.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer-lasting freshness, consider freezing the chicken thighs. Wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some extra tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight—this will deepen the spices’ impact.
• If blood oranges are not available, regular oranges work just fine; just keep an eye on sweetness.
• Make sure to arrange the chicken parts with some space in between for even cooking and browning.

Creative twists

Feel free to play around with this recipe! Consider adding olives for a Mediterranean flair or drizzling a balsamic reduction before serving for an added zing. For a lighter dish, try substituting skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks. If you’re looking to modify the flavors more, adding a splash of white wine to the roasting tray will introduce a layer of acidity.

FAQs

What is the preparation time for this recipe?

Preparation for Spiced Chicken Thighs with Blood Orange & Fennel takes about 15 minutes, with additional cooking time of 35–40 minutes.

Can I use different types of citrus?

Absolutely! While blood oranges add a unique flavor, you can easily substitute them with regular oranges, grapefruits, or even lemons for a different citrus twist.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat them to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).