Name: Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of skin-on, oven-roasted chicken, and with these Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken, it’s easy to whip up a meal that’s as tasty as it is comforting. This dish epitomizes what great comfort food is all about. The chicken thighs become beautifully crispy while retaining their juiciness, making each bite an indulgent experience. With enticing seasonings enveloping the chicken, your kitchen will smell heavenly as you prepare this dish.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

This recipe holds a special place in my heart; it’s one of those go-to meals that I can always rely on when I’m looking to impress a crowd without being tied to the kitchen. Whether for a family dinner or casual get-together, everyone loves well-cooked chicken. It’s a recipe that’s straightforward but delivers on flavor and satisfaction, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of garlic, onion, and herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma and burst of flavor.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden-brown skin is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Great for any occasion — serve with a side of vegetables or over rice.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): Choosing bone-in, skin-on thighs enhances flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This helps the spices adhere while also providing a rich flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a delicious depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
2 teaspoons onion powder: Offers a sweet, aromatic note that complements the garlic.
1 ½ teaspoon paprika: Provides a lovely color and slight smokiness, enhancing the chicken’s appeal.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb adds a touch of earthiness, balancing the flavors perfectly.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: It brings a warm, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with chicken.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing taste.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat, making every bite more interesting.

How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken

Preheat your oven: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready when your chicken is seasoned. This high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispiness.

Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 ½ teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. This spice blend infuses each bite with flavor, bringing the chicken thighs to life.

Season the chicken: Take the 8 chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This is crucial for achieving that crispy skin! Place the thighs in a large mixing bowl, add 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle ⅔ of the spice blend over the top. Use your hands to rub the oil and spices all over the chicken, making sure to get some underneath the skin for extra flavor.

Arrange the chicken: For even cooking and crisping, place each seasoned chicken thigh on a rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate and crisp the skin evenly. Sprinkle the remaining spice mix on top for an extra flavor boost.

Bake the chicken thighs: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 170°F to ensure the chicken is cooked through. If you want that final touch of crunch, turn on the top broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to get the skin even crispier.

Rest before serving: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This not only helps lock in the juices but also makes sure your chicken is tender and easy to cut into.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Just note that reheated chicken may not be as crispy as freshly made, but you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two to revive some of the texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid dryness, use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 170°F without overcooking.
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the oil and spices for a few hours before cooking.
If your chicken skin isn’t crisping up as desired, make sure it’s dry before seasoning and roasting.
Experiment with your spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your chicken a delightful kick.
Use a rack over your baking sheet to help achieve even cooking and desirable crispiness.

The Baked Chicken Thighs | Juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken are perfect for any dining occasion. This recipe not only saves you time but guarantees a delicious outcome every single time. Whether you’re serving it with a fresh salad or hearty potatoes, it’s bound to be a hit at your table. Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings based on your preferences; after all, cooking is about personal expression! The warmth of home-cooked meals and the simplicity of this recipe encourage creativity and a little bit of fun in the kitchen. Enjoy the juicy, crispy magic that is baked chicken thighs!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While you can use chicken breasts, they will not have the same juicy richness as thighs. If you choose to use breasts, adjust the cooking time, as they generally cook faster. You want to aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Do I have to use olive oil?

You don’t have to use olive oil! Other oils, like avocado oil or melted butter, can also work well. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, which can be just as tasty!

How can I ensure the chicken skin stays crispy?

To keep the skin crispy, make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. Also, using a rack allows heat to circulate, which aids in crisping the skin.

Can I prepare these chicken thighs in advance?

Absolutely! You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just take it out to bring to room temperature before baking for the best results.