Baked Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With a simple seasoning blend and a crispy golden-brown skin, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Baking the chicken thighs locks in moisture while creating a deliciously crispy texture on the outside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, tender chicken with a crispy skin
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep time
- Perfect for meal prep or a family dinner
- Pairs well with various side dishes
- Easy to customize with different seasonings
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry, then rub with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
- Bake: Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat.
- Garlic Butter Style: Brush with melted garlic butter before serving.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- BBQ Flavor: Coat with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs but reduce cooking time to 25-30 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 25-30 minutes since they cook faster.
How do I get extra crispy skin?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and bake uncovered at high heat.
What sides go well with baked chicken thighs?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad pair well.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes, marinating for a few hours enhances flavor, but it’s not necessary.
Should I cover the chicken while baking?
No, baking uncovered helps achieve crispy skin.
What’s the best way to check doneness?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F.
Can I add a sauce?
Absolutely! Drizzle with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or garlic butter before serving.
Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?
No, baking skin-side up allows the skin to crisp properly.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, air-fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I prevent dry chicken?
Avoid overcooking, and let the chicken rest before slicing.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Thighs are a simple, foolproof dish that delivers crispy, juicy, and flavorful results every time. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal!
PrintBaked Chicken Thighs Recipe
These juicy, flavorful baked chicken thighs have crispy skin and tender, seasoned meat. They’re easy to make with minimal prep and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
-
Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels for extra crispy skin.
-
Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne (if using).
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil and rub seasoning all over, making sure to coat evenly.
-
Bake:
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
-
Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
- For extra crispy skin, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired.
Notes
- For boneless, skinless thighs, reduce baking time to 20-25 minutes at 400°F.
- Pair with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Marinate for extra flavor! Let chicken sit in seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes to overnight before baking.