Description
Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, these easy baked chicken thighs are a simple weeknight dinner favorite. Crispy skin and perfectly seasoned meat make this recipe a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
½ teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). High heat ensures crispy skin and juicy meat.
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub olive oil on the chicken thighs and evenly coat with seasoning. Drizzle lemon juice for extra flavor if desired.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Place chicken thighs skin-side up, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
Bake: Bake for 35–45 minutes, depending on size. Broil 2–3 minutes at the end if the skin needs extra crisping.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Rest: Let the chicken rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat skin dry to ensure crispiness.
Use a wire rack to allow fat to drip away for extra crisp skin.
Do not overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming.
Adjust seasonings for spicier or bolder flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Easy Baked Chicken Thighs, Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken, Juicy Chicken Thigh Recipe