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Introduction
If you’re searching for a baked chicken thigh recipe that’s both simple and bursting with flavor, you’re in the right place. Chicken thighs are naturally juicy, budget-friendly, and versatile, making them a favorite for home cooks and food bloggers alike. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs stay moist and tender even when baked at high temperatures. This recipe will walk you through how to prepare perfectly seasoned, oven-baked chicken thighs that are crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.
Ingredients
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works great)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice for serving
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin gets crispy.
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Season generously by mixing olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
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Arrange the thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
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Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and crispy.
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Rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Thighs
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High heat is key – Baking at 425°F ensures crispy skin without drying out the meat.
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Don’t skip patting dry – Moisture prevents the skin from crisping up.
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Use a meat thermometer – Always check the thickest part of the thigh for doneness.
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Marinate for more flavor – If you have time, let the chicken sit in the seasoning mix for 2–4 hours before baking.
Variations
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Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs – Add 2 tablespoons honey and 2 minced garlic cloves to the seasoning mix.
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Spicy Baked Chicken Thighs – Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder.
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Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Thighs – Add fresh lemon juice and zest along with chopped parsley.
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BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs – Brush thighs with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes! Reduce the baking time to about 25–30 minutes since they cook faster.
Q: Can I bake chicken thighs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven to keep the skin crisp.
Q: Should I cover chicken thighs when baking?
A: No. Baking uncovered ensures crispy skin. Covering will make them steam instead.
Q: Can I freeze baked chicken thighs?
A: Yes, once cooled, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
SEO-Rich Section: Why Choose Baked Chicken Thighs?
When it comes to baked chicken recipes, thighs are the ultimate choice for beginners and seasoned cooks. They’re more forgiving than chicken breasts, naturally flavorful, and pair well with countless seasonings. Baking chicken thighs is also one of the healthiest ways to prepare poultry since you don’t need heavy frying oils. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a family-friendly dish, this baked chicken thigh recipe is a go-to classic.
Conclusion
This baked chicken thigh recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to enjoy a mouthwatering chicken dinner. With just a few pantry spices and less than an hour in the oven, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that rivals any restaurant dish. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
👉 Ready to master baked chicken? Try this recipe tonight and see why oven-baked chicken thighs are one of the best-kept secrets in home cooking.