Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and easy chicken thigh recipe that you can make in the oven? Look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy chicken thighs every time. Forget greasy fried chicken; this oven-baked version is healthier and just as satisfying. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.
Why Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a versatile and forgiving cut of meat. They're more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts, and they're less likely to dry out during cooking. This makes them ideal for oven baking, where achieving that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat is key.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: About 1.5 - 2 lbs (adjust according to the number of servings)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor)
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
- Optional seasonings: Consider adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken thighs cook evenly and get that satisfying crispiness.
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Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
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Season generously: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add any optional seasonings you'd like. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
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Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Ensure the thighs aren't overcrowded; leave some space between them for even browning.
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Bake for 40-45 minutes: Bake until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Tips for Extra Crispy Skin:
- Higher heat: For extra crispy skin, try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Broil (carefully!): Broiling for the last few minutes can also help crisp up the skin, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions:
These oven-baked chicken thighs are incredibly versatile! Serve them with:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, broccoli, or asparagus complement the chicken perfectly.
- A simple salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Rice or mashed potatoes: These classic sides soak up the delicious juices from the chicken.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy and juicy oven-baked chicken thighs! This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Remember to share your culinary creations using #CrispyChickenThighs!
