Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy meal that everyone will love. They are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have at home.
How to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Directions:
Creating Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help the skin get crispy.
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Toss the chicken thighs in the bowl until they are well coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Serve the chicken thighs hot from the oven, accompanied by your favorite sides. They pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. Enjoy the crispy skin and juicy meat!
How to Store Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore the crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before seasoning.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
Variation
You can change the seasoning to match your taste. Try adding lemon zest, Italian herbs, or your favorite spice blend for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they might not be as juicy. They may need less cooking time, so check for doneness earlier.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken thighs ahead of time and marinate them for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Just bake them when you are ready to serve.
3. What can I serve with the chicken thighs?
You can serve them with rice, pasta, grilled vegetables, or your favorite salad. They go great with almost anything!
Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on Best flavor and texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For coating the chicken.
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper Optional for heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin get crispy.
- In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Toss the chicken thighs in the bowl until they are well coated with the seasoning mixture.
Cooking
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
