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Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
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This Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs recipe delivers perfectly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat with minimal ingredients and easy preparation. Baked at high heat, the chicken develops a golden, crunchy crust while staying moist inside, making it a healthy and family-friendly comfort food option suitable for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–6 Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or Rosemary (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder (for spicy kick, optional)
  • Zest of 1 Lemon or Orange (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup (for sweet glaze, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. For enhanced flavor, gently tuck dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary under the skin if using.
  3. Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. Elevating the chicken allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and a crisp crust without sogginess.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Notes

  • Pat the chicken skin completely dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness.
  • Use a wire rack to elevate the chicken and allow air circulation for even browning.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming and soggy skin.
  • Bake at high heat (425°F / 220°C) to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
  • Let the chicken rest after baking to lock in moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked chicken thighs, crispy chicken, healthy chicken recipe, easy chicken thighs, gluten free chicken, juicy baked chicken

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/oven-baked-chicken-thighs/