Baked Chicken Thighs – The chicken thighs are seasoned with a perfect blend of herbs and spices, then baked to golden-brown perfection. It can be served with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Why Choose Baked Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a fantastic cut of meat because they have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, which makes them naturally more tender and flavorful. Baking them is an excellent method for ensuring the meat stays juicy while also developing a crispy, golden-brown skin. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a showstopper for your next gathering, baked chicken thighs are a great option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe as they lock in moisture and provide a crispy, golden skin.
- Olive Oil: For coating the chicken and ensuring a nice crisp on the skin.
- Seasoning: A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can customize the seasoning mix based on your personal preferences.
- Lemon: A few wedges for squeezing over the chicken just before serving, which adds a burst of freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Baked Chicken Thighs
Pat Dry: Always pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture and helps the skin become crispy when baked.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly is by using a meat thermometer. This helps you avoid overcooking and ensures the meat is juicy.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Allow your chicken to rest after baking. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Add Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices. Thyme, rosemary, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder are great staples, but you can also try curry powder, cumin, or even a bit of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Crisp the Skin: If you prefer even crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Variations to Try
Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs: Add fresh minced garlic and lemon zest to the seasoning mix for a fresh, citrusy kick.
Spicy Baked Chicken Thighs: Mix some cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes into the seasoning for a spicy version that packs a punch.
BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs: Brush the thighs with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking for a smoky-sweet flavor.
Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs: Combine honey, mustard, and olive oil for a tangy and sweet glaze. Brush it on during the final stages of baking.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Thighs
Baked chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve your chicken thighs alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts for a hearty, balanced meal.
- Rice or Quinoa: A simple rice pilaf or quinoa can complement the richness of the chicken, soaking up the flavorful juices.
- Salads: For a lighter option, pair the chicken with a fresh salad, such as a kale Caesar or a Mediterranean salad with feta and olives.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a winner with baked chicken thighs, providing a perfect contrast to the crispy skin.
How to Store Baked Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain the flavor and texture:
- In the Refrigerator: Store the baked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool down before refrigerating.
- In the Freezer: To store for a longer period, wrap the chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can warm the chicken thighs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but the cooking time will be shorter. Bake them for about 25-30 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What temperature should baked chicken thighs be cooked to?
Chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. If you prefer breasts, consider marinating them for added moisture and adjusting the cooking time.
Can I bake chicken thighs without skin?
Yes, you can bake chicken thighs without skin, but they won’t be as crispy. For extra flavor, try adding a rub or coating to the meat.
Baked Chicken Thighs
Baked Chicken Thighs - The chicken thighs are seasoned with a perfect blend of herbs and spices, then baked to golden-brown perfection. It can be served with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the seasoning:
- ½ tsp paprika (or ¼ tsp each sweet and smoked paprika)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp dried thyme (or rosemary/basil)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a rimmed baking pan with foil. Add a baking rack on top.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub in the seasoning mixture, making sure to coat the skin evenly.
- Arrange the chicken thighs on the rack, skin-side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 88Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 28mgSodium 329mgCarbohydrates 0gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 5g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Conclusion
Baked chicken thighs are a game-changer for easy weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. They offer a rich, savory flavor, tender meat, and crispy skin that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the classic seasoning or experiment with different marinades, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
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