These oven-baked chicken thighs are juicy and crispy, making dinner a breeze! With just a few simple spices, they’re full of flavor and cook up in only 30 minutes.
Who doesn’t love a quick meal? I pop them in the oven and relax while they bake. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without all the fuss!
Try serving them with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time. Easy peasy and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the stars of this dish. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer healthier options, skinless thighs or boneless chicken breasts work too, but cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps create a crispy skin. If you’re out of olive oil, try vegetable oil or melted butter for a delicious flavor shift.
Spices: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano bring great flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you can add a little cumin for a smoky touch. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be substituted for dried oregano for a fresh twist.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning! Adjust to your taste. If you prefer low-sodium options, use less salt or experiment with lemon zest for brightness.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Thighs Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is key! Start by patting the chicken dry; moisture prevents it from crisping. Make sure to use a high oven temperature (425°F) to cook quickly and crisply.
- Before seasoning, dry the chicken with paper towels and drizzle the olive oil.
- Ensure the chicken is spread out on the baking sheet, giving it space to roast evenly.
- Bake until you see a golden-brown color, which typically takes about 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer for precision; it should read 165°F.
Let the chicken rest before serving; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and delicious!
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 smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal comes together in about 30 minutes! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and then around 25 minutes for baking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get nice and crispy when baked.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your chicken great flavor!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub it all over so they’re evenly coated. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides of the thighs, rubbing gently to make sure it sticks.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them apart for even cooking.
6. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in and makes for a juicier bite!
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley if you’d like, and then enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter, around 20-25 minutes. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work fine. For a hint of smokiness, you could add a pinch of cumin or a dash of liquid smoke.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Sheet?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts is a great idea. Just cut them into uniform sizes and toss them in a little olive oil and seasoning. They can bake alongside the chicken!
