Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Oven-baked chicken thighs are a delightful combination of juicy, tender meat and crispy skin that’s hard to resist. This recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a hassle-free and scrumptious meal.

Ingredients:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature will help achieve that perfect crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is essential for getting that crispy skin. If there’s excess skin or fat hanging off the thighs, you can trim it for a cleaner look.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This flavorful spice rub will give your chicken a fantastic taste.
4. Rub the Spice Mixture: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and then rub the spice mixture all over them, ensuring each thigh is well coated.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Use a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken thighs without crowding. If you like, you can line the dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
6. Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the baking dish, skin-side up. Make sure they are not too close to each other to allow the heat to circulate and crisp up the skin.
7. Bake in the Oven: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the skin is beautifully crispy and browned.
8. Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a juicy result.
9. Garnish and Serve: If you like, garnish your oven-baked chicken thighs with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them hot and enjoy the delicious, crispy, and flavorful meal.

These oven-baked chicken thighs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You can pair them with a variety of sides, from simple mashed potatoes to a crisp garden salad. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a delightful crispy skin and a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Source: munchkintime.com