Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

Crispy baked chicken thighs are a simple, flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. With a perfectly seasoned skin that turns golden and crunchy, this recipe delivers juicy meat inside without the fuss of frying. It’s a reliable way to enjoy comfort food with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps well.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
3. Step 3: Rub the chicken thighs all over with olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the thighs, pressing it gently to adhere.
4. Step 4: Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a baking tray.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispy skin, leave the chicken uncovered in the fridge for a few hours before baking to dry out the skin.
• Try swapping paprika for smoked paprika to add a subtle smoky flavor.
• If you prefer milder heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to help maintain the crispiness of the skin, or microwave covered for a shorter time but expect softer skin.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time will be shorter, around 25 to 30 minutes. The skin may not crisp as well without the bone to help retain moisture.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 123 reviews

This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs delivers tender, juicy chicken with irresistibly crispy skin. Seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and baked to perfection, these chicken thighs are a simple yet flavorful main dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or meal prep.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Chicken Thighs

• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

Seasoning Mix

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps in achieving a crispier skin.
2. Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
3. Season the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then rub evenly with the seasoning mixture ensuring all sides are coated.
4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure high heat for crispiness.
5. Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for even cooking and air circulation.
6. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
7. Rest and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, then garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Notes

• For extra crispy skin, use a wire rack placed on the baking sheet so the chicken is elevated.
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• You can adjust cayenne pepper amount based on your preferred spice level.
• Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

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