Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Baked chicken thighs are one of those timeless dishes that bring warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With their enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen, these juicy, oven-roasted delights are the perfect centerpiece for a family meal or an easy weeknight dinner. Unlike some chicken recipes that leave you with dry meat and rubbery skin, baked chicken thighs promise tender, succulent meat bursting with flavor—just the way we love it!
Table of Contents
I remember the first time I prepared these baked chicken thighs for friends. The dish disappeared almost as fast as it was served! It’s a wonderful, uncomplicated recipe that effortlessly impresses. Whether you’ve had a long day or simply want to treat your loved ones to something special, this dish steps up to the plate every time. Trust me; once you experience the succulent flavors and crispy texture, this will become your go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, paprika, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste you won’t forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown, crispy skin makes these chicken thighs as pretty as they are tasty.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or parties, you can serve them with various sides.
- Kid-Friendly: These flavorful thighs are always a hit with little ones!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): Bone-in, skin-on thighs ensure tenderness and loads of flavor. If you prefer, boneless thighs can be used—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This helps the seasoning adhere and creates a beautiful golden crust. Can substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: A must for that robust, savory taste. Fresh minced garlic works well too if you have it on hand.
- 2 teaspoons onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic. Feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
- 1 ½ teaspoon paprika: Smoked paprika gives a deeper flavor, but sweet paprika is perfect if you prefer less smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This aromatic herb lends a classic touch. Fresh oregano can also be used if available.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds warmth and earthiness to the dish. Again, feel free to swap it for fresh thyme.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavors; table salt can be used in a pinch, but adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides just the right kick. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
Prepare Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry with a paper towel to eliminate any moisture. This step is crucial for crispiness.
Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, 1 ½ teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. This flavorful spice mix will be the star of your chicken.
Season Chicken Thighs: Transfer the chicken thighs to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the top, and sprinkle on ⅔ of your spice blend. Use your hands (don’t be shy!) to coat the chicken thoroughly, even getting under the skin for maximum flavor.
Arrange Chicken on Rack: Place a rack on top of a baking sheet and arrange the chicken thighs on the rack. This allows air to circulate, promoting even cooking. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining spice mix on top!
Bake the Chicken: Slide the chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (75°C). If you want that extra crunch, turn on the upper broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
Rest Before Serving: Once done, take the baking sheet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite remains tender and juicy.
Storing & Reheating
To store any leftovers, simply let the chicken cool to room temperature and place it in an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours, and in the fridge, it’ll be good for 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to extend its life, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. The skin may lose a bit of its crispiness, but a quick broil can help refresh it!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry thoroughly; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Allowing the chicken to reach room temperature prior to cooking ensures more consistent cooking.
- If you want more flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix and olive oil the night before and refrigerate it.
- For an added twist, consider incorporating citrus zest like lemon or orange into the spice mixture for a refreshing zing.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Baked chicken thighs are not just simple; they’re a canvas for flavor. From the rich seasoning to the satisfying crunch of the skin, these are sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to experiment with different spice blends or marinades; the possibilities are endless. Gather around the table, share a meal, and enjoy the delightful crunch and juicy goodness of this timeless dish!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute. Just remember to reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes because they cook faster without the bone.
How can I make the chicken gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional sauces or sides you serve with it are also gluten-free.
What sides pair well with baked chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You could even serve them with rice or pasta for a hearty meal!
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can definitely be used! Typically, you’ll want to triple the amount when using fresh versus dried. So if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme instead.
More Dinner Recipes
- Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Veggies
- Baked Ranch Chicken
- OMG Chicken
- Easy Keto BBQ Chicken Casserole
- Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
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📖 Recipe Card
Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Chicken Thighs bring irresistible flavor and easy prep to your table. With garlic powder, paprika, and a simple seasoning blend, enjoy a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Remove the chicken thighs from the fridge to bring them to room temperature and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix together all the herbs and spices for the seasoning.
- Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl, add the olive oil and ⅔ of the spice blend, then coat all sides of the chicken thoroughly.
- Arrange the chicken on a rack set atop a baking sheet and sprinkle the remaining spice mix on top.
- Bake the chicken thighs for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the interior temperature reaches 170°F. Optionally, broil on high for 2 to 3 minutes to crisp the top.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures that the meat stays juicy and flavorful while baking.
Feel free to adjust the spice amounts according to your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
