Baked Chicken Thighs
Baked chicken thighs are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. With crispy skin and tender, juicy meat, these chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection with a blend of garlic, paprika, and other aromatic spices. Whether served alongside vegetables, over rice, or in a salad, they make a versatile and satisfying dish. This recipe guarantees a crispy and flavorful exterior with moist, succulent meat on the inside.
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet (rimmed)
- 1 Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- 1 Meat thermometer (for checking internal temperature)
- 1 Small bowl (for seasoning)
- 1 Tongs (for handling chicken)
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Fresh herbs optional, like thyme or rosemary
- Lemon zest optional, for extra brightness
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the skin become crispy when baked.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin-side up. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Optional Crisping: For extra crispy skin, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for this recipe, as the skin crisps up and the bone helps keep the meat juicy. If using boneless, skinless thighs, the cooking time will be reduced (around 25-30 minutes).
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. You can add cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs for more flavor. You can also marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours before baking for extra flavor.
- Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. The chicken thighs store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and they can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures a juicier, more tender result.