Baked Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make main dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With crispy skin on the outside and tender meat on the inside, these thighs are seasoned to perfection and baked until golden brown. They pair well with a wide variety of sides and require minimal effort for maximum flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)olive oilgarlic powderonion powderpaprika (smoked or sweet)saltblack pepperdried thyme or Italian seasoninglemon wedges (optional, for serving)

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up.

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.

Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin where possible.

Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.

Optional: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispy skin.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 35-45 minutesTotal time: 45-55 minutes

Variations

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a lighter option (reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes).

Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Swap olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.

Marinate the chicken for a few hours beforehand in buttermilk or yogurt for extra tenderness.

Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary before serving for a fresh finish.

storage/reheating

Store baked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.For freezing, wrap individually and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, just reduce the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.

How do I get crispy skin?

Patting the chicken dry and baking at high heat helps achieve crispy skin. Broiling at the end can also add crispiness.

Can I bake them with vegetables?

Yes, add hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the pan. Toss them in oil and seasoning beforehand.

What if I don’t have paprika?

You can use chili powder or leave it out entirely. It adds color and mild spice, but isn’t essential.

Do I need to flip the chicken?

No, keeping them skin-side up throughout ensures crispy skin.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, season the chicken and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

What should I serve with baked chicken thighs?

They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use a baking dish instead of a sheet?

Yes, a baking dish works fine. Just ensure the thighs aren’t overcrowded.

Do I need to cover the chicken?

No, bake uncovered to allow the skin to crisp.

Why is my chicken not crispy?

Excess moisture or overcrowding the pan can prevent crispiness. Make sure to dry the thighs well and leave space between them.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Thighs are an easy and delicious way to serve up a satisfying dinner any night of the week. With simple seasoning and a quick bake time, they’re a go-to choice for juicy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheated for lunch, they’re always a winner.

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