Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs - The most amazing oven baked chicken thighs! These chicken thighs come out crispy on the outside and amazingly tender and juicy on the inside. Baked chicken thighs are so easy to make with only a few ingredients and one pan!
Ok, folks! One of the questions I get asked most often is how to cook chicken thighs. Try these with a side of our Classic Baked Mac and Cheese, so good! They're so easy to make, and this has become one of my most popular recipes! If you're looking for other fun chicken thigh recipes, try these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs and these Greek Chicken Thighs! We're also loving these Grilled Chicken Thighs during the summer months and of course Crispy Baked Chicken Wings all year long!
Questions that I hear about them the most are:
- How long do I cook chicken thighs in the oven and at what temperature?
- How do I cook chicken thighs in a pan but make sure they turn out crispy on the outside?
- Should I use boneless skinless chicken thighs are bone in with skin?
I think people love the thigh meat because it's super flavorful, but they just aren't as familiar with cooking them as they are the breast meat. Luckily, it's an incredibly easy process that takes only a few minutes of prep and then the thighs bake up to crispy tender perfection on a sheet pan.
And, I am here to answer those questions for you today with my favorite baked chicken thigh recipe ever, plus a quick video that shows just how I make them!
Let's go directly into tips for success when making baked chicken thighs:
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Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. The natural moisture from the chicken can prevent getting a really good sear. These thighs basically sear right in the oven, so this is an important but quick step to take.
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How long and at what temperature should you bake the thighs? You'll want to bake these at 400 degrees for 35-45 minutes without moving or turning them during the process. This temperature and time ensure that crispy outside and juicy inside we're looking for. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees before being consumed.
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Use a rimmed baking sheet. The chicken will produce some of its tasty natural juices, and you don't want those running off the pan into your oven!
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I use bone in and skin on chicken thighs for this recipe. I find that it produces the best results. However, if you have boneless skinless on hand or that is just your preference, they work just fine with this recipe as well! They may take about 10 minutes less to cook, so just keep an eye on them.
I hope you guys enjoy this simple chicken recipe as much as my family does! As always, leave me a comment if you have additional questions, I'm happy to answer them!
Be sure to check out our video for this recipe below and follow along on Facebook to see all of the yummy food videos we share!
~Nichole
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 3 Pounds Chicken thighs, About 6-8
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
- 2 Teaspoons Salt
- 2 Teaspoons Garlic Powder
- 2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and set aside.
- Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the chicken thighs on prepared baking sheet and drizzle with the olive oil rubbing the oil into the chicken to coat.
- In a small bowl mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Sprinkle the spices over the chicken evenly.
- Bake chicken in preheated oven for 35-45 minutes.*
Notes
Nutrition
If you're looking for other tasty chicken recipes for dinner try these:
If you're looking for baking recipes, these are some of my readers favorites:
I have made these time and time again since finding the recipe. Sorry it took me so long to post about it. Perfectly crispy skinned baked thighs. Thank you SM!
We call this “Monday chicken”! We have it once a week and we love it. This is hands down the best and simplest chicken thigh recipe. Crispy skin every single time. You’d think we would get tired of it but we crave it constantly!
Amazing staple in our recipe rotation. Me entire family loves it and my children ask for it specifically if it’s been more than 10-12 days since we last had it! This recipe is awesome!!
Amazing. Easy to make and such delicious results! Saved this recipe and will be using it more often! Thank you
great recipe i make them alot and are making them tonight
Best baked chicken I've had. I too was surprised at the ratings until we ate it. This chicken is hard to beat for taste, crispy skin, and easy prep. I will be making this regularly. The kids love it as well.
Since I've found this recipe, it has been my go to. Never fails.
This is the best crispy chicken recipe I have found. I cut the salt out as I have High Blood Pressure, but it is still delicious
Love this recipe. It’s simple and delicious. I usually double the seasoning and use it for a dozen thighs. I toss everything together in a big bowl and refrigerate overnight before baking. The extra pieces get shredded and frozen. They’re great for adding to pastas or salads.
Amazing!!! Thank you so much, every time I try one of your recipes it never disappoints!!
Delicious, but far too much salt for me. I cut it down to 1/2 tsp, and it was perfect
This chicken has a fantastic taste with a great crispy skin. I love it, and it’s easy.
This recipe is the best. I've been using it for years, and it's so good that I don't even bother looking for something different.
This recipe is the best! We turn on the broiler for the last 3-4 mins of baking.
That's a good idea. Thanks.
Perfect week night staple recipe!
We love this recipe as is!
Wow, at first ai wondered how a recipe can have such a high average rating. After I made this, I fully understand and agree.
Made this yesterday and could not believe how simple the recipe is, yet how moist, flavorful the chicken can be. My husband immediately said, add this recipe to our regulars for frequent rotation.
Thank you!
We love the spice blend and crispy finish
Easy weeknight meal!
Absolutely delicious!!!!!
I did use smoked paprika!