1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures the chicken thighs cook evenly and develop a crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispy skin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme or rosemary, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
3. Season the Chicken Thighs
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. You can also lift the skin slightly and rub some seasoning underneath for extra flavor.
4. Arrange the Chicken Thighs
- Line a baking sheet or oven-safe dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the heat to circulate around each thigh, ensuring even cooking.
5. Bake the Chicken Thighs
- Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh to check for doneness.
- For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
6. Rest and Serve
- Once the chicken thighs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the baked chicken thighs hot with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs
- Dry the Skin: Patting the chicken thighs dry helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning to ensure flavorful chicken.
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest after baking to retain its juices and tenderness.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
- Honey Mustard: Mix honey and mustard and brush it on the chicken thighs during the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Conclusion
Baked chicken thighs are a versatile, easy, and delicious meal option that can be customized to your taste. With their crispy skin and juicy interior, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect baked chicken thighs lies in the preparation, seasoning, and baking technique. By following this guide, you’ll achieve juicy, flavorful, and crispy chicken thighs every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken thighs!