Name: Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
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

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Baked Chicken Thighs are one of those meals that bring everyone together, almost effortlessly. There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of chicken roasting and herbs mingling in the oven. Each thigh emerges beautifully crisp on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. With a golden, crispy skin that crackles as you cut into it, these chicken thighs make for a simple yet impressive dinner on busy weeknights or whenever you crave something heartwarming.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

I discovered this recipe during a hectic autumn evening when my family was coming over for dinner. With only half an hour to prepare, I needed something easy but also satisfying. As the chicken baked, I marveled at how a few simple spices transformed it into something extraordinary. The result? Juicy, flavorful baked chicken thighs that had everyone asking for seconds. If you’re ready to experience this culinary delight, let’s jump in and create these captivating baked chicken thighs together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just five minutes of prep and about 45 minutes of cook time, you have dinner ready in no time.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is infused with a savory blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and herbs that makes your taste buds dance.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden skin and crispy texture make this dish irresistibly inviting.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for weeknight family dinners, meal prep, or even serving guests on special occasions.
Budget-friendly: Chicken thighs are often more affordable than other cuts, making this a great deal for delicious home-cooked food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): The star of the dish, chicken thighs are known for their rich flavor and juicy texture. Bone-in, skin-on thighs yield the best results, but skinless or boneless can work if you prefer.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and richness while helping the spices adhere to the chicken. You can substitute with melted butter for a different flavor profile.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Elevates the flavor with savory notes. Fresh garlic could replace this, but adjust the amount to taste since fresh tends to be stronger.
2 teaspoons onion powder: Provides a sweet, aromatic undertone. You can swap it for finely minced fresh onion, but keep in mind it may change the cooking time slightly.
1 ½ teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild sweetness and deep color. Smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor if you enjoy a smokier profile.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb complements chicken wonderfully. Feel free to adjust or use Italian seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness. Fresh thyme can be used as well; you’ll require more since dried herbs are concentrated.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: This enhances the flavor of the chicken. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you can use a salt substitute, but be aware it may alter the overall taste.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides the perfect kick. You can experiment with white pepper for a milder taste.

How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy skin you crave. Meanwhile, take the chicken thighs out of the fridge and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing them to reach room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. Pat the thighs dry using paper towels; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. This flavorful seasoning blend will add depth to the chicken, making every bite a burst of flavor.

Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and sprinkle in ⅔ of your spice mix. Getting your hands in there to massage the oil and seasoning into the skin and meat is the best way to ensure that every crevice is flavored — don’t forget to get some seasoning under the skin for added flavor!

Set Up for Baking: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a rack on top. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs evenly on the rack, skin-side up. Simply sprinkle the remaining seasoning on top to give it that extra punch of flavor before baking.

Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when they reach an internal temperature of 170°F, they are done. For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes towards the end. Just make sure to watch carefully, as broilers can quickly darken things!

Rest & Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time ensures the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist. Now, grab your favorite side dishes, and get ready for a delicious meal!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Baked Chicken Thighs, let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for about four days. If you want to save them for longer, wrap the thighs tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag: they’ll last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, reheating in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes will help retain its crispy texture. Just remember, chicken may lose a bit of juiciness after reheating, so enjoy the leftovers while they’re fresh!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Always allow your chicken to reach room temperature for even cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge can be unevenly cooked.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it’s the most reliable way to avoid undercooked chicken.
Want extra crispy skin? Keep an eye on the broiling time, as it can burn quickly.
Experiment with different herbs based on your taste preference, and have fun by mixing in some lemon zest for a zesty kick!

Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for all occasions. It’s easy to personalize the spices to your taste, inviting exploration and creativity in the kitchen. Go ahead and whip out those baking sheets — you’re about to create a scrumptious meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster than bone-in, so check the internal temperature a bit earlier. They might not have the same depth of flavor but will still be delicious!

How can I make this recipe spicy?

If you love some heat, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix. Tailor it to your liking! You can always start with a smaller amount and add more for an extra kick.

Can I marinate the chicken thighs before baking?

Definitely! Marinating chicken thighs can enhance flavor and tenderness. Just ensure to marinate for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

What sides pair well with Baked Chicken Thighs?

These thighs pair beautifully with various sides. Consider roasted vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can get creative with your favorite sides to make it a complete meal!