These oven-baked chicken thighs are juicy, crispy, and ready in just 30 minutes! With a little seasoning, they pack a ton of flavor without much fuss.
It’s hard to resist that golden-brown skin! I love serving them with veggies or mashed potatoes for a quick dinner. You’ll be amazed at how simple this recipe is!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are best for this recipe since they stay juicy while cooking. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless thighs, but adjust cooking time since they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This oil adds flavor and helps achieve crispy skin. You can swap it out for vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Just keep the flavor in mind!
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is convenient, but you could use minced fresh garlic. Use about 2 cloves; just remember it might be a little stronger in taste.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can bring a different twist to the recipe.
Dried Thyme: I often use oregano as a substitute too! Fresh herbs can also work, just double the amount since they’re less concentrated than dried herbs.
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Achieving crispy skin is all about drying and cooking methods. Here’s how to ensure that perfect crackling skin:
- Always pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps remove moisture that’s key for crispiness.
- Use high heat to bake; 425°F is perfect to render the fat and crisp the skin.
- Consider broiling at the end. A few minutes will give you that extra crunch, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to settle and enhances the flavor.
These simple steps make a big difference. Enjoy your meal!
Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. You’ll have delicious, juicy chicken thighs ready to serve in just half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy skin!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat each chicken thigh dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin get extra crispy when baked.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or oregano), salt, and black pepper. Mix them well so the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Rub the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and rub them all over with olive oil. Make sure they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over both sides of the thighs, gently massaging it into the skin.
5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This will help with cleanup later!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when the skin is crispy and golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Optional Broiling:
If you like extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve your delicious chicken thighs hot. They pair wonderfully with veggies or your favorite side dish.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy chicken thighs made quickly and simply!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! They will cook faster, so check for doneness around 20-25 minutes instead of 25-30 minutes.
What Should I Serve with the Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs are great served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with rice or quinoa to soak up any juices!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the olive oil and seasonings for up to 24 hours in the fridge. This enhances the flavor, but make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy them cold in salads too!
