Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers juicy, tender meat with a crispy skin. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with family and friends. The combination of olive oil and a blend of spices creates a savory crust, while the basting technique ensures the chicken remains moist throughout the cooking process. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground paprika

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 pounds chicken thighs (6–8 pieces), patted dry

• 1 tablespoon butter, diced

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet or large pan with aluminum foil and place it in the oven as it heats up.

2. Prepare Seasoning Paste: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until a paste forms.

3. Season Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning paste. Toss to coat, ensuring each piece is evenly covered.

4. Arrange Chicken: Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the pan, skin-side up. Dot each piece with a small amount of diced butter.

5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

6. Baste and Continue Baking: After 20 minutes, baste the chicken with the juices that have accumulated in the pan. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

7. Final Baste and Crisping: Baste the chicken again, then continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 5–15 more minutes. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Boneless, Skinless Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time of around 25 minutes. Note that they may be less juicy than bone-in thighs.

• Herb Substitutes: If you don't have Italian seasoning or dried parsley, you can use dried oregano or a combination of other dried herbs.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. To maintain crispiness, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet while reheating.

FAQs

How do I make sure the chicken skin gets crispy?

To achieve crispy skin, ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning. Baking on a preheated pan and finishing under the broiler for 1–2 minutes can also help crisp the skin.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs can be used. They will cook faster, approximately 25 minutes, but may be less juicy than bone-in thighs.

What should I do if I don't have Italian seasoning?

You can substitute Italian seasoning with dried oregano or a mix of dried basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Is it necessary to use butter?

Butter adds flavor and helps with browning, but it's optional. You can omit it for a dairy-free version.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

Yes, marinating the chicken for 1–2 hours can enhance flavor. Ensure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and baking.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily. Adjust the cooking time to 25–30 minutes, depending on thickness.

How do I prevent the seasoning from washing off during baking?

Rub the seasoning paste thoroughly into the chicken and avoid rinsing the chicken after seasoning.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, store the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

What sides pair well with oven-baked chicken thighs?

Oven-baked chicken thighs pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs offer a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that's sure to satisfy. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make this recipe your own.