Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy dish that anyone can make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The chicken turns out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a meal that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The recipe uses simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. Plus, baking the chicken in the oven allows you to walk away while it cooks, freeing up your time for other tasks. This dish is also versatile, making it easy to pair with your favorite sides.
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
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
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (6-8 pieces, patted dry)
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
Directions:
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet or a large rimmed pan with foil, and place it in the oven as it heats up. You want the pan to be hot when you add the chicken.
- Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil with all the seasoning until a paste forms.
- Season Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning. If your bowl is small, work in batches. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly. Remove each thigh and rub the seasoning into the skin.
- Bake: Carefully place the chicken thighs on the hot pan. Dot the chicken with small pieces of butter. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the pan and baste the chicken with the juices that have collected. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, then baste again. Finally, finish baking for 5 to 15 more minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs can be served with various sides. They taste great with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of rice or pasta.
How to Store Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Patted Dry: Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps the skin get crispy.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect results, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature.
- Baste for Flavor: Basting the chicken during cooking adds flavor and helps keep it moist.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Try adding some cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for a fresh flavor. You can also use different cuts of chicken, like drumsticks or breasts, if you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use skinless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs, but they may not be as crispy as those with the skin.
Q: How long does it take to cook chicken thighs?
A: It typically takes about 35-45 minutes to cook chicken thighs in the oven, depending on their size and whether they have bones.
Q: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
A: Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salt, as it may draw moisture out of the chicken.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 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)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet or a large rimmed pan with foil, and place it in the oven as it heats up.
Seasoning
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil with all the seasoning until a paste forms.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning. Toss the chicken to coat it evenly and rub the seasoning into the skin.
Cooking
- Carefully place the chicken thighs on the hot pan and dot them with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in the oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the pan and baste the chicken with the juices that have collected.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, then baste again.
- Finish baking for 5 to 15 more minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
