Yuzu-Herb Chicken

It's always a relief to get through the holidays. As a retail store owner, it is our busiest time and there is little time to cook at home or contemplate what to eat.

Now that we are a few weeks into 2018, I've had more time to spend in my kitchen. January is also the time when my sister's yuzu tree in Berkeley fruits, so it's all yuzu, all the time. I've made a yuzu liqueur, yuzu marmalade and brew Yuzu Ginger Tea almost every night. I feel very lucky to have a robust supply of fresh yuzu this time of year. To celebrate the fruiting of yuzu, we're declaring February to be Love Yuzu month!

For those who don't have access to fresh yuzu, yuzu juice is a great alternative to enjoy the flavors of this unique fruit. So, what the heck would you use yuzu juice for? Think of it as a lemon juice substitute.

Baked chicken is one of my favorite foods because it is flavorful, juicy, and easy. Japanify a simple lemon herb chicken recipe by switching out the lemon juice for yuzu juice. I'll show you how!

Yuzu-Herb Chicken

INGREDIENTS

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

6 tbsp yuzu juice

2 tbsp parsley chopped

2 tbsp lemon thyme chopped

2 tbsp EVOO

1 clove grated garlic

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper

METHOD

1. Put the thighs in a gallon size, seal-tight bag.

2. Mix all the other ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Mix well.

3. Pour the juice and herb mixture into the bag.

4. Marinate the thighs for at least two hours and eight hours max, flipping over once in between.

5. Preheat the oven to 400˚F.

6. Put the thighs in a baking dish. I fit them in a 9 x 9 x 9 Pyrex baking dish. The size of the thighs may differ so please adjust the size of your pan accordingly. 

7. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.

8. To get crispy browning on the skin, broil for five minutes.

9. Let cool for 15 min and serve.

This chicken is crispy and flavorful with a hint of tartness thanks to the yuzu juice. The longer the marinade time, the more yuzu will come through. It's a great option for people who don't have access to fresh yuzu, but want to experience this short-season Asian citrus!