Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: A 35-Minute Weeknight Dinner Sensation

Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Garlic and Herbs

These juicy baked chicken thighs are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution when you need something delicious with minimal effort. Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish, this chicken recipe delivers incredible flavor with simple seasonings that enhance the natural richness of dark meat chicken. The oven does most of the work, creating perfectly crispy skin and tender, succulent meat that your family will request again and again.

Why Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for Oven Baking

If you’ve been exclusively cooking chicken breasts, you’re missing out on the magic of thighs. Here’s why chicken thighs are superior for oven-baking:

• More Flavor: Dark meat naturally has more flavor than white meat
• Harder to Overcook: Higher fat content means more forgiving cooking times
• Budget-Friendly: Typically less expensive than chicken breasts
• Crispy Skin: The skin gets wonderfully crispy when baked properly

The Perfect Baked Chicken Thigh: Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside

The secret to perfect baked chicken thighs is balancing temperature and time to achieve crispy skin while maintaining juicy meat. At 375°F (190°C), the chicken cooks evenly without drying out, while the skin has enough time to render its fat and become delightfully crispy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5-2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: lemon wedges for serving

How to Make Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a rack on top for optimal air circulation.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin!
3. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush each chicken thigh with olive oil, then sprinkle generously with the seasoning mixture on both sides. Make sure to get some seasoning under the skin for extra flavor.
5. Arrange the chicken thighs on the rack, skin side up, leaving a little space between each piece.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
7. For extra crispiness, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Chef’s Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Thighs

Here are some professional tips to elevate your baked chicken thighs:

• Room Temperature: Let your chicken thighs sit out for about 15 minutes before baking for more even cooking
• Dry Thoroughly: The drier the skin, the crispier it will get in the oven
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings, especially under the skin
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)

Delicious Sides to Serve with Baked Chicken Thighs

These versatile baked chicken thighs pair well with countless side dishes. Here are some perfect companions:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, asparagus)
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Rice pilaf or grain medley
• Crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful juices

Storing and Reheating Leftover Baked Chicken Thighs

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months
• Reheating: For crispy skin, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Microwaving will result in tender meat but softer skin

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Thighs

Should I cover chicken thighs when baking?

No, baking uncovered is the key to getting that crispy, golden skin. Covering would create steam and result in soggy skin.

How do I know when chicken thighs are done?

The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer – chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, though cooking time will be reduced to about 20-25 minutes. Note that without the skin, you won’t get the same crispy exterior.

What’s the best temperature for baking chicken thighs?

375°F (190°C) is ideal as it allows the fat to render and the skin to crisp without drying out the meat.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, these simple yet flavorful baked chicken thighs are sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll create a dish that delivers maximum taste and satisfaction every time.

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes