Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
If you’ve been searching for the perfect weeknight dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet simple to prepare, look no further. This Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is hands down one of my all-time favorite dishes to make when I want something comforting, crispy, and downright delicious. With tender, juicy meat beneath a golden, crispy skin and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices, it’s a dish that delights every time and quickly becomes a family favorite. Let me walk you through how to make this showstopper right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are straightforward but pack a punch, each adding essential elements to the overall taste and texture. From the rich olive oil that keeps the chicken moist to the bold spices that perfectly season every bite, you’ll appreciate how every component works together effortlessly.
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs, with skin on: Choose skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps the spices cling perfectly.
- 4 teaspoons (24 g) kosher salt: Essential for seasoning deep into the meat, balancing flavor.
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon (1 g) paprika, smoked or sweet: Brings beautiful color and a subtle smoky or sweet note.
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the chicken with a delicate sweetness and umami.
- 1 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper: Offers a gentle kick to balance the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon (1 g) chopped parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the finished dish with color and mild herbaceousness.
- 8 lemon wedges: An optional but wonderful tangy addition to squeeze on top before serving.
How to Make Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by adjusting your oven rack to the middle position and heating the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). This high heat is key for achieving that irresistible crispy skin. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and set a wire rack on top. Don’t forget to grease it lightly with olive oil or cooking spray to ensure the chicken thighs don’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Pieces
Next, you’ll want to trim any excess skin or fat from the chicken thighs to avoid flare-ups and uneven cooking. Pat each piece dry thoroughly with paper towels; moisture on the skin is the enemy of crispiness, so this step is super important. Dry chicken skin will roast beautifully and turn golden brown in the oven.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Thighs
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss everything together until each piece is generously coated in the flavorful mixture. This seasoning blend creates a deeply savory and slightly smoky crust that you’re going to love.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces evenly spaced on the wire rack over the baking sheet. Leaving room between each piece allows the heat to circulate and crisp the skin thoroughly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the skin is deeply golden and crispy, and an internal meat thermometer inserted near the bone reads 175 degrees Fahrenheit (79 degrees Celsius). This temperature ensures the thighs are fully cooked yet remain incredibly juicy.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Remove your chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is a game-changer because it lets the juices redistribute within the meat, making every bite tender and succulent. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve alongside lemon wedges for a bright, zesty squeeze if you like.
How to Serve Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a pop of inviting green color and a touch of herbal brightness. Lemon wedges are my personal favorite accompaniment because the acidity enhances the richness of the chicken and cuts through the crispy skin with a fresh zing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—from fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy risotto to roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. I love keeping things simple with garlic roasted broccoli or a light quinoa salad to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, consider placing the chicken thighs on a large wooden board with lemon wedges and parsley scattered artfully around. Drizzle any pan juices over the top before serving for extra shine and flavor. You can even shred the cooked chicken and toss it into salads or tacos to bring your Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe into new culinary adventures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken thighs should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 to 4 days, making a convenient and satisfying meal to enjoy later.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken thighs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat while preserving crisp skin, pop leftovers into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 degrees Celsius) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible because it tends to make the skin soggy.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but keep in mind the cooking time will be shorter. Also, the bone helps retain moisture and flavor, so boneless pieces may be slightly less juicy.
Is it necessary to use a wire rack for baking?
Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, helping the skin get crispy all over. If you don’t have one, you can bake directly on foil, but flipping the thighs halfway through baking will help crisp the skin.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer inserted near the bone—it should read 175°F (79°C). The chicken will also have clear juices and no pink near the bone.
Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
While this recipe uses a dry seasoning mix, you can marinate the thighs in olive oil and spices for a few hours or overnight to deepen flavor. Just remember to pat dry before baking to keep the skin crispy.
What if I like spicier chicken thighs?
You can easily add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning blend for a nice kick. Adjust according to your heat preference and enjoy the extra layer of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling golden, crispy, and juicy chicken thighs out of the oven after following this Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe. It’s a dish that brings comforting flavors and undeniable texture to your plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen rotation. So, grab those thighs, fire up your oven, and let the deliciousness begin!
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Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Juicy Baked Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly crispy skin. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic, and onion powders, these baked thighs are effortlessly delicious and great for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs, with skin on (about 4 pounds/1.8 kg)
Seasoning Mix
- ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil
- 4 teaspoons (24 g) kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon (1 g) paprika, smoked or sweet
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon (1 g) chopped parsley
- 8 lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Grease the rack with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Prepare the Pieces: Trim off any excess skin and fat from the edges of the chicken thighs. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry each piece to remove surface moisture, a key step for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Pieces: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to this seasoning mixture and turn them to coat evenly, ensuring every piece is well covered with the flavorful blend.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs evenly spaced on the prepared wire rack atop the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven until the skin turns golden brown and crispy, about 35 to 40 minutes. Confirm doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 175°F (79°C) to maintain juiciness.
- To Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and arrange lemon wedges on the side. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm.
Notes
- Drying the chicken thoroughly before seasoning is essential for crispy skin.
- Using a wire rack allows heat to circulate evenly and prevents soggy bottoms.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste or dietary needs.
- Internal temperature is critical; avoid overcooking to keep thighs juicy.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
