30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

This 30-minute oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. The combination of smoky spices and a touch of sweetness creates a deliciously crispy and juicy chicken every time.

Ingredients

• 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (fat removed)
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup avocado oil or butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, Kosher salt, and black pepper to create the spice rub.
3. Step 3: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub each piece evenly with the spice mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
4. Step 4: Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the avocado oil or melted butter over them to help them crisp up in the oven.
5. Step 5: Bake the chicken thighs for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the edges are slightly crispy.
6. Step 6: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken thighs for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
• Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika if you prefer a milder smoky flavor.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a spicy kick.
• Use olive oil instead of avocado oil or butter if preferred for a different flavor profile.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through to maintain the crispy texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power but note the skin may soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used, but increase the baking time to about 30-35 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

Is it necessary to remove the fat from the chicken thighs?

Removing excess fat reduces flare-ups and greasy texture, but it is optional. Some prefer keeping a little fat for added moisture and flavor.

30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 79 reviews

This 30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with a perfectly balanced blend of spices and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy option for a weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep and bakes to tender perfection in the oven.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 6–8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (fat removed)

Dry Rub

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Fat for Cooking

• ¼ cup avocado oil or butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken thighs to crispy, juicy perfection.
2. Prepare the spice rub: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Season the chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere better. Generously coat each piece with the spice mixture, pressing it in all over both sides to maximize flavor.
4. Arrange in baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet with the avocado oil or melted butter. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer, making sure they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the surface is nicely browned and caramelized.
6. Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Notes

• For extra crispy edges, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
• You can substitute chicken breasts, but baking time may vary and the chicken might be less juicy.
• Feel free to swap avocado oil with olive oil or melted butter depending on preference.
• Adjust the level of chili powder or add cayenne pepper for additional heat.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid dryness.

Keywords: oven baked chicken thighs, boneless skinless chicken, quick chicken recipe, baked chicken, easy dinner, smoked paprika chicken