Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They’re super easy to make with just a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings!
You won’t believe how quickly these can become a family favorite. I love serving them with potatoes or a fun side salad—yum! Can’t wait for you to try them!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are great for extra flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless thighs can be used, but they may not be as juicy. Drumsticks work well too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a lovely richness. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or melted coconut oil can also work without altering the flavor significantly.
Spices: Paprika adds sweetness and color. You can swap it for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Garlic and onion powders are easy to substitute with fresh minced garlic and onions, but adjust the quantity to taste.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you like milder flavors, try using a pinch of black pepper or omit it entirely. For more heat, consider crushed red pepper flakes.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness and color. If you don’t have any, try cilantro or basil as a substitute, or skip it for a simpler presentation.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Thighs Are Crispy?
Getting that delightful, crispy skin on the chicken thighs is key! First, make sure your oven is preheated properly to 425°F (220°C). The high temperature helps to crisp the skin perfectly. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before marinating to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin get crispy.
- Arrange the thighs in a single layer on the baking sheet, skin side up. This ensures even cooking and heat circulation.
- Optional: Broil the chicken for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices settle and keeps the meat tender.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. In about 45-50 minutes total, you’ll have a plate of crispy, flavorful chicken thighs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help get the chicken skin nice and crispy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little spice!). Stir it well until everything is combined into a flavorful marinade.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands (don’t worry, it’s fun!) to toss the chicken until each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. This will add all that delicious flavor.
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Take a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with a little oil and place the marinated chicken thighs on it. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer with the skin side facing up for the best crispiness.
5. Bake:
Pop the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin to be golden and crispy.
6. Optional Broil for Crispiness:
If you want extra crispy skin, switch your oven to broil and broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Let It Rest:
Once your chicken thighs are done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes them even tastier!
8. Serve:
Garnish your chicken with some fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that breasts will cook faster and may dry out if overcooked. Reduce the cooking time to about 20-30 minutes, depending on their size, and always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each will work well, but olive oil adds a nice flavor that you might miss with neutral oils.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the thighs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Sheet?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli can enhance your meal. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Toss them in olive oil and spices of your choice before placing them on the baking sheet with the chicken.
