Chicken thighs are one of the most flavorful and juicy cuts of chicken. When baked in the oven, the skin crisps up beautifully while the meat stays tender and moist. This recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs guarantees a savory, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
1. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon paprika (or ¼ teaspoon each of sweet and smoked paprika)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or substitute with dried rosemary or basil)
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the thighs cook evenly while allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up during baking.
Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides. Rub the spices in to enhance flavor absorption.
Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the sheet, ensuring they are not crowded.
Bake: Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you prefer extra crispy skin, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This step helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist.
2. Tips for Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Use Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs offer the best flavor and texture when baked. The skin helps retain moisture, while the bone imparts extra flavor to the meat. Avoid using boneless, skinless thighs in this recipe, as they won’t crisp up in the same way.
Dry the Skin Thoroughly
The key to crispy skin is drying the chicken thoroughly before seasoning. Excess moisture on the skin can prevent it from crisping up properly. Use paper towels to pat the skin dry and remove any moisture.
Use a wire rack:
Placing the chicken thighs on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows air to circulate, resulting in even cooking and crispier skin.
Do not overcrowd the pan
Leaving space between the thighs helps them cook evenly and prevents steaming.
Monitor internal temperature
Using a meat thermometer guarantees doneness without overcooking. Aim for 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the meat.
Broil at the end
For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
3. What to Eat With Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or zucchini make for a perfect side dish. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few herbs, then roast them alongside the chicken thighs for a complete meal.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that complements the savory flavors of baked chicken. The smooth, buttery potatoes balance out the crispy skin and tender meat of the chicken thighs.
Rice Pilaf or Quinoa
A light rice pilaf or nutty quinoa provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken. These grains are great at soaking up any juices from the chicken, making every bite even more flavorful.
Green Salad
A simple green salad with arugula, spinach, and a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the chicken thighs. The freshness of the salad is a perfect complement to the savory chicken.
Steamed Asparagus or Broccoli
Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli adds a fresh, healthy element to the meal. A squeeze of lemon juice on the veggies adds a bright contrast to the savory chicken.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftover
Leftover baked chicken thighs can be just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
Storing Leftovers
Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then store the leftovers in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat the chicken thighs in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil, which will help crisp up the skin again.
This perfect oven 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!
