These easy oven-baked chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! With just a sprinkle of spices and 30 minutes in the oven, you’ve got a tasty meal ready to go.
I love how simple this recipe is; it’s perfect for busy evenings. Plus, you can serve it with almost anything—rice, veggies, or a big salad. Yum! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best choice for moisture and flavor. If you want a healthier option, you can use skinless thighs, but they may not be as juicy. Drumsticks also work well!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness, but you can use any cooking oil, like avocado or sunflower oil, if you prefer. Just avoid heavy oils that have strong flavors, as they might overpower the spices.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika is fantastic! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can work. You can also swap in your favorite seasoning blend for a different flavor.
Dried Thyme: This is optional, but it adds a nice earthy note. You could replace it with dried rosemary or oregano if thyme isn’t on hand. Fresh herbs are great too, just add more at the end when serving.
How Do I Ensure Crispy Skin on My Chicken Thighs?
The trick to getting beautifully crispy skin is moisture control and high heat. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking—this helps remove excess moisture that can steam the skin.
- Preheat your oven well before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that crunch.
- Place the chicken skin side up on a baking sheet to allow the hot air to circulate around the meat.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Letting the chicken rest after cooking is also important. It keeps the juices in and results in a tender bite. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or chopped herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven, plus a little time for resting. In total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to have juicy, flavorful chicken thighs ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to getting that crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving that delicious crispy skin.
3. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to make sure all the spices are evenly mixed.
4. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, then use your hands to rub it all over each thigh. Follow this by sprinkling the spice mixture evenly on the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof skillet, making sure they are skin side up. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Optional Crispy Finish:
If you want extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, carefully take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep the juices inside the chicken. You can garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite herbs before serving.
Enjoy your easy, juicy, and flavorful oven-baked chicken thighs!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, as boneless thighs cook faster. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or even cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Adjust the amount to your taste, as cayenne can be quite spicy!
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Marinade the Chicken Before Baking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade can enhance the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the salt, as marinades often contain salt or soy sauce.
