why make this recipe
Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are a perfect choice for a quick, delicious meal. They are tender, flavorful, and easy to make. If you want to impress your family or friends without putting in a lot of work, this dish is for you. Plus, using chicken thighs instead of breasts ensures that the meat stays moist and juicy, making every bite a delight.
how to make Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter or ghee)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon of other kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions:
- Gather your ingredients and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This preparation sets the stage for a smooth cooking process.
- Pat the 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the spices: 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Use your hands to coat the pieces thoroughly.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer on a rimmed baking dish, like a 9×13-inch one, and brush on any leftover oil and spice mixture. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the internal temperature hits at least 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear. For even better tenderness, remove the chicken at 170-175°F (77-79°C), cover loosely, and let it rest for 5 minutes to reach 175-180°F (79-82°C) through carryover cooking.
- Turn the chicken briefly in the pan juices for extra flavor before plating. This step ensures every bite is as moist as possible. The total time is just 40 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of bake time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
how to serve Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Serve Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs hot with your favorite sides. They pair well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also slice them for tacos or serve them over pasta for a delicious twist.
how to store Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Once the chicken has cooled down, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave to enjoy later.
tips to make Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Don’t skip drying the chicken thighs with paper towels; this helps them get a nice sear and stay juicy.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding more cayenne can give it a nice kick, while reducing the smoked paprika will make it less smoky.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking dish. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
variation
You can marinate the chicken thighs in your favorite sauce or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. Try adding lime juice or soy sauce for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they will be less juicy compared to thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: What can I serve with Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs?
A: They go well with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter or ghee) Optional substitutes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon of other kosher salt)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This preparation sets the stage for a smooth cooking process.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
- Add olive oil and all spices to the bowl, then use your hands to coat the chicken thoroughly.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer on a rimmed baking dish and brush on any leftover oil and spice mixture.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For better tenderness, remove at 170-175°F (77-79°C), cover loosely, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Turn the chicken in the pan juices for extra flavor before plating.
