Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

These oven baked chicken thighs come out juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned every time. They take only a few minutes to prep, and the oven does all the work. If you want a reliable, flavorful main dish for busy nights, this is the one to save.

Why This Recipe Works So Well for You

This recipe uses pantry-friendly spices, cooks evenly, and keeps the chicken moist with minimal effort. Since everything goes straight into the oven, cleanup is simple and the results are consistently delicious. It’s great for beginners and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment.
4. Brush each thigh with olive oil.
5. Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and oregano in a small bowl.
6. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over all the chicken thighs.
7. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crisp.
8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations / Substitutes

• Swap paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Use boneless thighs and reduce cooking time to about 22–25 minutes.
• Add cayenne pepper for heat.
• Replace thyme and oregano with Italian seasoning if needed.
• Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not drying the chicken: Moisture prevents crisp skin.
• Crowding the pan: Thighs need space to brown.
• Skipping the resting time: Resting keeps juices inside.
• Using low oven heat: High heat helps crisp the skin.

FAQs

How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

How do I reheat it?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Can I freeze baked chicken thighs?
Yes, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I remove the skin?
Yes, but the chicken will be less crispy. Reduce cooking time slightly.

Can I use frozen chicken?
Thaw fully before baking to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve this with?
Try rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple salad.

Are boneless thighs okay?
Absolutely—just shorten the cooking time.

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Conclusion

These oven baked chicken thighs are simple, reliable, and full of flavor. You’ll love how juicy they turn out with almost no effort.

Full Recipe

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