Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crisp on the outside! With simple seasonings and no breading needed, this easy one-pan recipe delivers crispy skin and tender meat with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly crispy skin – No frying required!
• Juicy & flavorful – Dark meat stays tender and moist.
• Simple ingredients – No fancy techniques or equipment needed.
• Quick & easy – 10-minute prep, then bake!
• Great for meal prep – Stays crispy when reheated!

Ingredients

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

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for a mild kick)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (this helps air circulate for extra crispiness).
2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels (moisture prevents crispiness).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and chili powder.
2. Rub seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coating.

Step 3: Bake

1. Arrange chicken skin-side up on the wire rack.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. (Optional) Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

Step 4: Rest & Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Thighs – Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper.
• Lemon Herb Chicken – Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the seasoning.
• Honey Garlic Glaze – Brush with honey + garlic butter in the last 5 minutes.
• BBQ Chicken Thighs – Coat with BBQ sauce in the final 10 minutes.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.

FAQs

How do I get extra crispy skin?

Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning and bake on a wire rack.

Can I use boneless thighs?

Yes! Reduce the cook time to 25-30 minutes.

Can I marinate the chicken?

Yes! Marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for 2-4 hours.

Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?

No! Baking skin-side up ensures crispiness.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What’s the best way to check for doneness?

Use a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (74°C).

Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Try Italian, Cajun, or curry spice blends.

What sides pair well with this chicken?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice.

Can I cook chicken thighs at 400°F instead?

Yes! Bake for 40-45 minutes for crispy results.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are flavorful, juicy, and so easy to make! With crispy skin and a simple seasoning blend, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Try it today for a no-fail, delicious chicken dish!

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