This Old Fashioned Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is a tried-and-true classic that yields perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender chicken with crispy skin. It’s simple, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
1. Old Fashioned Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or use rosemary, oregano, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet or a 9×13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Drying the skin helps it crisp up during baking.
In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
3. Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs all over with olive oil (or melted butter). This will help the seasoning stick and promote crispy skin.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure to rub it in for even coverage.
Step 4. Arrange the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet or dish, skin-side up. Make sure the thighs are not touching each other to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 5. Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. The skin should be crispy and golden brown.
For extra crispy skin, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh finish.
2. Serving Suggestions
Mashed Potatoes: Serve the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a healthy side.
Rice or Quinoa: For a lighter side, serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice or quinoa.
3. Variations
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the seasoning for a zesty herbaceous flavor.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Brush the chicken with a mixture of 2 tablespoons honey and 2 minced garlic cloves during the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and savory twist.
Spicy Chicken Thighs: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
4. How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat to help re-crisp the skin.
This Old Fashioned Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken with minimal effort. With just a few pantry staples and some easy prep, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in under an hour!
