Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, this Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is a must-try. With a crispy, golden skin and juicy, flavorful meat, these chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite. Ideal for busy cooks, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time while delivering maximum taste. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home chef, you’ll love how simple yet satisfying this dish can be.

Why You’ll Love This Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready to go in the oven in just minutes.
• Versatile: Perfect for pairing with a wide variety of sides.
• Delicious Every Time: Crispy skin and juicy meat with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this mouthwatering baked chicken thighs recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 pounds chicken thighs (about 6-8 pieces, patted dry)
• 1 tablespoon butter (diced)

this RECIPE

Essential Equipment for Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs

• Rimmed baking sheet or large rimmed pan
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula
• Meat thermometer

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet or large pan with foil and place it in the oven as it heats up. This ensures the pan is hot when you add the chicken, helping to achieve crispy skin.

2. Prepare the Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture forms a paste.

3. Season the Chicken Thighs

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning paste. Work in batches if the bowl doesn’t hold all of the chicken. Toss to coat each piece thoroughly, ensuring the seasoning is rubbed into the skin for maximum flavor.

4. Bake the Chicken Thighs

Carefully remove the hot baking pan from the oven and place the seasoned chicken thighs on it, skin side up. Dot the thighs with diced butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

5. Baste and Continue Baking

After 20 minutes, carefully remove the pan from the oven and baste the chicken with the juices that have accumulated in the pan. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Repeat the basting process one more time, then finish baking for another 5-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Chicken Thighs

• Not Patting Chicken Dry: Moisture on the skin can prevent it from getting crispy. Always pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Skipping the Basting: Basting the chicken helps to keep it moist and enhances the flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Leave space between the chicken thighs to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.

How to Achieve Crispy Skin on Baked Chicken Thighs

• Use a Hot Pan: Preheating the pan helps the chicken skin start crisping up immediately.
• Bake at High Temperature: Baking at 400°F ensures a nice, crispy skin.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Space the chicken thighs out on the pan to allow for proper air circulation.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Change Up the Seasoning: Swap out the Italian seasoning for Cajun or lemon pepper seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh rosemary or thyme over the chicken before baking for added aroma and taste.
• Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Breasts: Adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts may take a bit longer to cook through.

Serving Suggestions for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Pair your baked chicken thighs with:

• Roasted Vegetables: Such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
• Mashed Potatoes or Rice: For a comforting and hearty meal.
• Simple Green Salad: To add a fresh, crunchy element to your plate.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken Thighs

• Storing Leftovers: Place any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Tips: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to crisp up the skin again.

FAQs About Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
A: Yes, but they may cook faster. Check for doneness after 15-20 minutes.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

Give this Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe a try for your next family dinner! With its easy preparation, delicious flavor, and versatility, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments and subscribe to our blog for more tasty recipes!

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