Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs deliver a golden-brown exterior with juicy, flavorful meat that’s simple enough for weeknights but satisfying enough for any occasion.
This one-pan recipe requires just a few pantry staples and under an hour to transform chicken thighs into a crispy, crave-worthy dinner centerpiece.
Key Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs – The star of the dish, skin-on and bone-in for maximum flavor and juiciness during baking.
Olive oil – Helps crisp the skin and carries the seasoning evenly across each piece.
Salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and supports that perfect crispy skin.
Garlic powder – Adds a mellow, savory depth without overpowering the other spices.
Onion powder – Provides a subtle sweetness and umami note to balance the seasoning blend.
Italian seasoning – A herbaceous mix that introduces aromatic complexity with minimal effort.
Black pepper – Offers a hint of heat and rounds out the seasoning profile.
Paprika – Contributes a smoky, warm flavor and adds appealing color to the crust.
Simple Steps to Baked Chicken Thighs Perfection
Start by drying the chicken thoroughly—this step is key to achieving that crave-worthy crisp. A quick rub of olive oil and a generous seasoning blend preps the thighs for the oven. Bake until the skin is irresistibly crispy and the meat reaches a safe, succulent 165°F.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
For maximum crispiness, always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, which can cause steaming instead of roasting. If the skin isn’t crisping enough, broil briefly at the end—but watch closely to prevent burning.
Best Practices for Storing Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and retain the crisp texture, use an oven or toaster oven set to 375°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which softens the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly and note the skin may not crisp as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can season the chicken a day ahead and refrigerate uncovered to help dry the skin further for better crisping.
What side dishes go well with baked chicken thighs?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad make great accompaniments.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to confirm.
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 3 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 6 to 8 pieces)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning blend
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a sizable baking tray by lining it with aluminum foil to simplify the cleanup process.
- Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging, then pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up during baking. Arrange the pieces on the foil-lined baking tray.
- Drizzle the thighs evenly with olive oil, massaging it into the skin and meat to create a uniform coating.
- Combine the salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika in a small mixing bowl. Sprinkle this aromatic blend over each piece of chicken, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
