Easy Baked Chicken Thighs
Juicy and crispy baked chicken thighs that are perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients to create flavorful chicken with crispy skin and tender meat. A go-to meal for the whole family.
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet or shallow roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush
- Tongs
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat (optional)
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) Optional
- lemon zest for garnish Optional
Flavor Boosters (Optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil for extra crispiness
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for caramelization
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season: Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Optionally, add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Arrange: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a rimmed baking sheet or shallow roasting pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin should be crispy and golden brown.
- Optional Broil: For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and dust with a bit of baking powder before seasoning.
- Marinade: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for 2-4 hours using a mix of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
- Spicy Variation: Add chili powder or hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Flavor Pairing: Serve with lemon wedges or fresh herbs for a bright finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Alternatively, use an air fryer for a quick reheat.