Oven-baked chicken thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
- If the thighs have excess fat, trim it, but leave some for flavor.
- Season the Chicken:
- Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and any optional herbs like thyme or rosemary. Rub the seasonings onto both sides of the chicken.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
- Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the chicken directly on the baking sheet.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on the rack or baking sheet, skin side up.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve:
- Serve the oven-baked chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your preferences. This basic recipe is versatile and can be adapted with different herbs and spices. Enjoy your oven-baked chicken thighs!
