This oven-baked chicken thighs recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these thighs are seasoned and baked to perfection, ensuring a crispy skin and tender meat.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for busy cooks. You can customize the seasoning to your liking, adding herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Getting started with oven-baked chicken thighs is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature, which is key for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
Next, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is essential, as moisture on the skin can hinder crispiness. Once dried, season the chicken generously with a blend of spices. A mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper works wonders, enhancing the flavor profile.
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
The secret to perfectly crispy chicken lies in the baking process. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the meat is cooked through while retaining its juiciness.
Complementing Flavors with Roasted Vegetables
While the chicken is baking, consider preparing a side of roasted vegetables. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini are excellent choices that complement the chicken beautifully.
Toss the vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on a separate baking sheet and roast alongside the chicken for a convenient and healthy side dish. The flavors meld together, creating a harmonious meal.
Garnishing and Serving
Once the chicken thighs are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
For presentation, garnish the chicken with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s aroma.
Creating a Rustic Dining Experience
To enhance the home-cooked feel of your meal, serve the chicken and vegetables on a rustic wooden table. The natural elements of the table create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Adding a wedge of lemon on the side provides a refreshing touch. A squeeze of lemon over the chicken just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a delightful zing.
Enjoying the Meal
Gather around the table with family or friends to enjoy this delicious oven-baked chicken thighs dish. The combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and flavorful roasted vegetables makes for a satisfying meal.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. The simplicity of the preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the company and the delightful flavors on your plate.
Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
These chicken thighs are seasoned with a blend of spices and baked in the oven until golden brown. The cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, and the recipe serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 0g