Baked Chicken Thighs

 

About This Recipe

Baked chicken thighs are a fundamental preparation of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs cooked in an oven. This method yields a crispy exterior and moist, flavorful interior. It is a versatile base for various meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken thighs are forgiving during cooking due to their higher fat content compared to white meat. This recipe requires minimal preparation and uses basic kitchen equipment. The result is a consistently cooked protein suitable for multiple culinary applications.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Brush the chicken thighs lightly with olive oil.
5. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs.
6. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or on a sheet pan.
7. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

FAQ

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes. The cooking time will be shorter, typically 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The texture will be different due to the lack of skin and bone.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is safe to eat when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, without touching the bone, reads 165°F (74°C).

Why pat the chicken dry?

Removing surface moisture promotes browning and crisping of the skin during baking.

You Must Know

Always use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature of poultry. Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more moist meat.

Storage Tips

Allow cooked chicken thighs to cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to maintain texture.