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Guest-Favorite Pomegranate Molasses Chicken Thighs

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These pomegranate molasses glazed chicken thighs are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with tender meat and crispy skin. An unforgettable dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • ⅓ cup pomegranate molasses
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh pomegranate seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh parsley or mint (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  5. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until deep golden brown.
  6. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, skin-side up, in a single layer.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, remaining olive oil, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and ground cumin until smooth.
  9. Brush about half the glaze over the chicken thighs.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes.
  11. Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining glaze.
  12. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is caramelized.
  13. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  14. Sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley or mint if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the searing step—it’s essential for crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead. If the skin browns too quickly, tent with foil. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pomegranate molasses chicken, glazed chicken thighs, Middle Eastern chicken, dinner party recipe, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/guest-favorite-pomegranate-molasses-chicken-thighs/