Name: Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484184H7M33S
Total time: PT-484184H7M33S
Ingredients: 6–8 skinless chicken drumsticks or thighs: Thighs are the juiciest cut of chicken and hold up well to baking.; ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps the coating stick to the chicken.; 2 Tablespoons mustard: Provides a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.; 1 cup bread crumbs: Gives the chicken a crunchy, crispy texture.; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the crust.; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs like oregano and basil, elevating the overall flavor.; ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A savory kick that complements the Parmesan and mustard.; ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat to balance the other flavors.

When it comes to weeknight dinners that are quick, easy, and guaranteed to please, baked chicken thighs are hard to beat. This recipe provides a crispy, golden crust on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful on the inside. It’s perfect for those who want a versatile dish that can be paired with almost any side and satisfies both picky eaters and sophisticated palates alike. Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious baked chicken thighs recipe and discover how you can master this staple dish in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked chicken thighs recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple and requires just a handful of common ingredients. You can have this dish on the table in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of mayonnaise and mustard ensures a rich flavor while the breadcrumb and Parmesan crust delivers that crispy, savory texture we all crave. The best part? This recipe is entirely customizable. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, making it as mild or as bold as you like.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

To create the perfect crispy baked chicken thighs, you’ll need these ingredients, which balance flavor, moisture, and texture:

6–8 skinless chicken drumsticks or thighs: Thighs are the juiciest cut of chicken and hold up well to baking.
½ cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps the coating stick to the chicken.
2 Tablespoons mustard: Provides a slight tang that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.
1 cup bread crumbs: Gives the chicken a crunchy, crispy texture.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the crust.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs like oregano and basil, elevating the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: A savory kick that complements the Parmesan and mustard.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat to balance the other flavors.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, ensure you have the right tools to make the preparation as smooth as possible:

Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional but recommended)
Mixing bowls (for both the wet and dry mixtures)
Tongs or a fork (to coat the chicken evenly)
Oven mitts (for safe handling of hot trays)

How to Prepare Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken bakes evenly, becoming crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.

Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately

In a bowl, combine the ½ cup mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of mustard. This will serve as the base that keeps your breading on the chicken.

In a separate bowl, mix the 1 cup of bread crumbs, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This mixture forms the crispy, flavorful coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken thigh and coat it thoroughly in the mayonnaise and mustard mixture. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, ensuring that each piece is well covered for an even crisp once baked.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken on a Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each piece so they cook evenly and the coating becomes crisp.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes, or until the coating turns golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked. You can check if it’s done by using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Chicken Thighs

Don’t skip the mayo: The mayonnaise not only helps the breading stick but also keeps the chicken moist while baking. If you don’t like mayo, don’t worry—you won’t taste it!
Use a rack: For even crispier chicken, place the thighs on a wire rack on top of your baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken for a more uniform crisp.
Check your breading: If your breadcrumbs aren’t sticking, press them gently into the chicken to ensure they adhere well before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the baking sheet: If the chicken pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of bake, resulting in a soggy coating.
Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning the breadcrumb mixture will leave your chicken bland. Make sure the dry mixture is well-seasoned before coating the chicken.
Undercooking the chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken thighs are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

For a full meal, serve these baked chicken thighs with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan. This adds a pop of color and a bit more flavor, making the dish look extra appetizing when it hits the table.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing

Place any leftover baked chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Reheating

To maintain that crispy texture, avoid the microwave. Instead, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Variations of Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

There are endless ways to tweak this recipe to suit your taste:

Spicy Chicken Thighs: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb Crusted Chicken Thighs: Substitute the Italian seasoning for a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes for an equally crunchy coating.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! However, chicken breasts may cook faster, so reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes and keep an eye on the internal temperature.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the coating step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This baked chicken thighs recipe is the perfect go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. The combination of tangy mustard, rich mayonnaise, and a crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan coating results in tender chicken with a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, easy to follow, and customizable to suit your preferences.

Give it a try and see how it can easily become a favorite in your household! Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings or sides to make it your own. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy-to-make dishes. Happy cooking!