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Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Rebecca
I just pulled these out of the oven, and wow—these really are the Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs I’ve ever made! The skin turned out perfectly crispy, while the inside stayed juicy and full of flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • Olive oil
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Dried thyme
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • Fresh parsley optional for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high temperature is key to achieving that crispy, golden skin. 🌟
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a crispy exterior. If there’s any extra skin or fat, trim it off for a cleaner look.
  • Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Mix well. This seasoning blend is going to make your chicken thighs irresistible.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then rub the spice mixture all over them. Be generous and make sure you get the seasoning into all the nooks and crannies.
  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Make sure they’re spaced out to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
  • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). The skin will be beautifully golden and crispy. 🎉
  • Once out of the oven, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the meat even more tender. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking to ensure even baking.
  • Don’t skip patting the chicken dry. This small step makes a big difference in achieving crispy skin.
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper to make it as mild or as spicy as you like.
  • For an even crispier finish, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Keyword Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs