Baked Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin Recipe

Baked Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin is a timeless and easy recipe that transforms a humble cut of chicken into a meal that is both comforting and gourmet. The skin becomes beautifully crispy while the meat stays juicy and tender. Chicken thighs are a favorite among many home cooks and chefs alike because of their rich flavor, ability to stay moist even after long cooking times, and their versatility in various dishes.

Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out if overcooked, chicken thighs offer a forgiving cooking experience and can tolerate higher heat, which is key to achieving that perfectly crispy skin. In this recipe, the thighs are seasoned with a simple yet delicious blend of herbs and spices, then baked to perfection in the oven for a crispy, golden skin.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Thighs

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is essential for achieving that crispy skin while cooking the chicken thighs evenly.

2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture on the skin will prevent the chicken from crisping up properly. The drier the skin, the crispier it will become in the oven.

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3. Trim Excess Fat: If you prefer, trim off any large pieces of excess fat from around the chicken thighs. However, leaving some fat helps with flavor and juiciness, so it’s best to leave a little intact.

4. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This blend of herbs and spices will provide a rich, savory flavor to the chicken.

5. Coat the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil or melted butter (your choice), then rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat both the top and underside. For maximum flavor, make sure the seasoning gets under the skin as well. If you prefer, you can gently lift the skin of the chicken thighs and apply some seasoning directly on the meat before pressing the skin back down.

6. Optional Lemon Zest: If you’re using lemon juice, you can also zest the lemon before cutting it in half. Sprinkle the zest over the chicken to add an extra burst of citrusy flavor.

Step 2: Roast the Chicken Thighs

7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with a little olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up, making sure there is space between each thigh to allow the air to circulate for even crisping.

8. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs. The skin should turn golden brown and crispy, and the meat should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

   • Tip: If you have large thighs, they may require a little more time in the oven. If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just be sure to watch the chicken closely while broiling to avoid burning.

9. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken has cooked through and the skin is crispy, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 3: Serve the Chicken Thighs

10. Serve: Transfer the baked chicken thighs to serving plates. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a zesty and bright flavor.

11. Side Dishes: Baked chicken thighs with crispy skin pair well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad. For a lighter option, serve with a cauliflower mash or roasted zucchini.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Skin

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: The key to getting the skin crispy is removing as much moisture as possible from the skin. Always pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking.

2. Use High Heat: The high temperature (425°F/220°C) is essential for crisping up the skin while keeping the meat tender. Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat, as it helps the skin become golden and crunchy.

3. Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the chicken thighs are arranged with space between them on the baking sheet or dish. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than roast, which results in soggy skin.

4. Optional Broiling: If you want extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

5. Rest the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures that the juices settle, making the meat juicy and tender. This also helps the skin stay crispy.

6. Use Bone-In, Skin-On Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are essential for crispy skin. The skin provides protection during baking and helps lock in moisture, while the bone helps distribute heat evenly during the cooking process.

7. Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Some great additions include paprika, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, oregano, or even a bit of parmesan cheese to add richness to the flavor.

Side Dish Ideas for Baked Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin

While the chicken is the star of the meal, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich, savory flavors. Here are a few ideas:

1. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts adds a deliciously sweet and earthy balance to the chicken. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until tender.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for chicken. You can make them creamy with butter and cream, or for a healthier option, try mashed cauliflower. Both options pair perfectly with the crispy chicken thighs.

3. Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. Consider arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, and top with some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.

4. Rice Pilaf

A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs, garlic, and sautéed onions is another excellent side dish for chicken. You could also try serving the chicken with quinoa or couscous for a slightly different texture and flavor.

5. Sautéed Spinach or Kale

For a healthier side, sauté spinach or kale in olive oil with garlic until wilted. This simple side dish is full of nutrients and provides a slight bitterness that pairs well with the richness of the chicken.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes provide a slightly sweet, hearty contrast to the savory chicken. Cube and roast them with olive oil, salt, and a bit of cinnamon or smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The nutritional breakdown will depend on the exact size of the chicken thighs, the ingredients used, and portion sizes. However, here is an estimated nutritional analysis for one serving (one chicken thigh):

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal

• Protein: ~20-25g

• Fat: ~18-20g

• Carbohydrates: ~2-4g (primarily from the spices and herbs)

• Fiber: ~0g

• Sodium: ~400-500mg (depends on added salt and seasoning)

• Cholesterol: ~80mg

The chicken thighs are a great source of protein and healthy fats, particularly if you’re using olive oil or butter. They are also relatively low in carbohydrates, making this a great option for low-carb or keto diets.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin is a simple yet mouthwatering recipe that transforms a basic cut of chicken into a flavorful, juicy, and crispy dish. With a crispy, golden skin and succulent meat, these chicken thighs are perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special occasions. The recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal ingredients, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser.