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Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Perfect Dinner Idea

oven-baked chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken thighs with crispy, golden skin using a simple oven-baking method at 400°F. Perfect for quick, fuss-free dinners that satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring pieces do not touch. If no rack is available, place directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes without opening the oven door frequently.
  7. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, pierce the thickest part to ensure juices run clear without pink.
  8. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the thighs before serving.
  10. For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Let chicken rest after baking for juicy meat. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature. Skin-on thighs yield best texture and moisture.

Nutrition

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