Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

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These Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs are everything you want in a simple dinner juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with bold, savory flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday meals, this easy recipe gives you that satisfying crunch without deep frying. Serve them with your favorite sides and you’ve got a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal ready to go!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets extra crispy.
  3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet.
  6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until skin is crispy and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. For extra crisp, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end just watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Variation

  1. Swap smoked paprika for chili powder or Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
  2. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option reduce cooking time by about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add fresh rosemary or lemon zest to the seasoning blend for a burst of brightness.

Cooking Notes

  • Always pat the chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning this is key for crispy skin.
  • Using a wire rack over the baking sheet helps heat circulate evenly for even crisping.
  • Let the chicken rest before cutting to keep the juices locked in.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with roasted potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic dinner plate.
  2. Pair with a crisp garden salad and crusty bread for a lighter meal.
  3. Great with creamy mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.

Tips

  • Don’t skip the broil at the end if you love ultra-crispy skin.
  • For easy cleanup, line your pan with foil under the parchment paper.
  • Double the recipe and use leftovers in wraps or salads the next day.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Sodium: 390mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
    Yes! Just reduce the cooking time by about 5–7 minutes and check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

  2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the skin crispy.

  3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
    Absolutely. You can season the chicken a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge this even helps deepen the flavor.

  4. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
    You can substitute with regular paprika, chili powder, or even a dash of cumin for a slightly different flavor profile.

Conclusion

These crispy baked chicken thighs are a simple yet flavorful go-to recipe that turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers juicy meat and irresistible crispy skin every single time.

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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

These Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs are everything you want in a simple dinner juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with bold, savory flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday meals, this easy recipe gives you that satisfying crunch without deep frying. Serve them with your favorite sides and you’ve got a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal ready to go!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets extra crispy.
  3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet.
  6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until skin is crispy and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. For extra crisp, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end just watch carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Make sure to really dry the chicken skin before seasoning it’s the secret to that irresistible crunch.
  • Want a smoky twist? Add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder to the spice mix.
  • Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer to keep that skin crisp.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 390mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, oven-baked chicken, easy chicken dinner

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