Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Introduction
This simple roasted chicken thigh recipe is perfect for a fast dinner during busy end-of-year nights. Crispy skin and juicy meat come together with minimal ingredients and effort, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil evenly over each piece.
- Step 2: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor and help crisp the skin.
- Step 3: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Step 4: Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
- Step 5: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Step 6: Serve the chicken warm alongside your favorite roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary before baking.
- Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking but watch timing closely to avoid drying out.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain crispy skin and avoid drying the meat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly and consider marinating to keep them moist.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear when pierced.
PrintCrispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
This fast and flavorful baked chicken thighs recipe is perfect for busy end-of-year nights. Crispy skin and juicy meat come together effortlessly with simple seasoning and oven baking, making it an ideal hearty dinner that pairs wonderfully with roasted or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over each piece to coat the skin and help with browning. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper on both sides of each thigh to enhance the flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Place in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy and a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 165°F (75°C) to ensure doneness.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes on a plate or cutting board. This step helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
- Serve warm: Serve the baked chicken thighs immediately while warm, alongside your favorite roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Notes
- Drying the chicken skin thoroughly before applying oil is key to achieving a crispy crust.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is safely cooked without drying out.
- Resting the chicken after baking helps retain juices and improves flavor.
- Perfect side dishes include roasted root vegetables, steamed greens, or a fresh salad.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs deliver more flavor and moisture compared to boneless or skinless options.
Keywords: baked chicken thighs, crispy chicken, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken
