This recipe for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is a real winner! It’s quick to make, taking just 30 minutes, and the chicken turns out juicy and flavorful every time.
I love how easy it is to toss the thighs in some spices and pop them in the oven. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on provides the best flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless thighs, you can use those too; just adjust cooking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps achieve crispy skin. You can substitute it with vegetable oil or melted butter if needed for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder: A quick and easy way to add garlic flavor. Fresh minced garlic can also work, but be cautious, as it can burn faster in the oven.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smoky depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can be used instead for a little kick.
How Can You Get Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Achieving crispy skin is all about moisture control! First, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels; excess moisture can prevent crispiness. Also, applying oil helps the skin crisp up. The high temperature of 425°F (220°C) is crucial, as it encourages browning without drying the chicken out.
- Preheat your oven while you prepare the chicken.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side up and leave space between them for even cooking.
- Let them bake undisturbed until they’re golden brown and the temperature is right.
Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-40 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a tasty meal without too much hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting crispy skin on those chicken thighs.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin become golden brown and crispy during baking.
3. Mix the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together well; this will give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
4. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub it in evenly. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture over the thighs, making sure they are generously coated.
5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet that you’ve lined with parchment paper or foil for easy clean-up. Make sure to space them out a bit so they cook evenly.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the skin is crispy and a meat thermometer reads at least 165°F (75°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the meat more tender and juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a lovely touch. Serve the chicken thighs warm with your favorite sides, and enjoy your delicious meal!
This simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite—enjoy your juicy and flavorful oven-baked chicken thighs!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, you can use them; just be sure to reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes since they cook faster without bones.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can be good substitutes. They might not have the smoky flavor, but they’ll still add a nice color and taste to your chicken!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for crispy skin. Also, baking at a high temperature (425°F) helps render the fat in the skin and crisp it up beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, ensuring the chicken stays moist.
