Delicious Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals Recipe

Introduction

Delicious baked chicken thighs are a perfect choice for easy weeknight meals. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, this dish combines simple ingredients for maximum flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that anyone can master.

Ingredients

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (boneless, skinless can be used with adjusted cooking time)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter, avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or bottled lemon juice, vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional; use sugar substitute or omit for sugar-free)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to achieve crispy skin.
2. Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during baking.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and honey if using. Toss the chicken thighs in this mixture to coat evenly.
4. Step 4: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish without overcrowding them.
5. Step 5: Bake for 35-45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
6. Step 6: For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
7. Step 7: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
8. Step 8: Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the seasoning mix for added flavor.
• Substitute boneless thighs if preferred but reduce baking time to prevent drying out.
• Adding a splash of vinegar in place of lemon juice adds a nice tangy brightness.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning.

Storage

Store leftover baked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to help restore crispy skin, or microwave gently covered to retain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless thighs, but reduce the baking time since they cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), and the juices should run clear when pierced.

Delicious Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe for Easy Weeknight Meals Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 137 reviews

This Delicious Baked Chicken Thighs recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare juicy, crispy chicken thighs perfect for easy weeknight meals. With a blend of aromatic spices, a touch of olive oil, and optional lemon juice and honey for brightness and sweetness, this dish is both versatile and satisfying. The high-temperature baking method ensures a crispy skin and tender meat inside, making it a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Thighs

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)

Seasoning & Marinade

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or bottled lemon juice or vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, or sugar substitute like stevia)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a high heat environment that crisps the chicken skin beautifully.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving a crispy skin during baking.
3. Season the Thighs: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the lemon juice and honey if using. Toss the chicken thighs in this seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated on all sides.
4. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Avoid overcrowding – ensure space between pieces for even cooking and browning.
5. Bake: Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures a moist, tender bite.
8. Serve: Serve the baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Bone-in, skin-on thighs yield the best flavor and texture, but boneless, skinless can be used with adjusted cooking time.
• If omitting honey or syrup, the dish will be less sweet but still flavorful.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and prevent overcooking.
• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Feel free to customize the seasoning with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for different flavor profiles.

Keywords: baked chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meals, crispy chicken, oven baked chicken