Baked chicken thighs are an easy, delicious, and foolproof way to get crispy skin and juicy, tender meat every time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying main dish that pairs perfectly with sides like mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
This no-fuss recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these oven-baked chicken thighs will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Juicy – The skin turns golden brown and crispy, while the meat stays tender and full of flavor.
✔ Easy & Foolproof – Just season, bake, and enjoy—no complicated steps!
✔ Budget-Friendly – Chicken thighs are affordable and have more flavor than chicken breasts.
✔ Customizable – Use your favorite seasonings and marinades to switch up the flavor.
✔ Meal-Prep Friendly – Bake a batch and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra crispiness)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth of flavor)
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano (optional for extra seasoning)
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel—this helps the skin crisp up.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring they’re coated evenly.
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme.
Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs.
Step 3: Arrange & Bake
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Let Rest & Serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Thighs
✔ Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it helps the skin get crispy.
✔ Use high heat (425°F) to crisp up the skin while keeping the meat juicy.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan—leave space between each thigh for even cooking.
✔ Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F is perfect, but for extra tenderness, go up to 175°F-185°F.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sides – Mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.
Healthy Options – Steamed broccoli, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Sauce Ideas – Drizzle with honey mustard, garlic butter, or barbecue sauce.
Storage & Reheating
To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Baked chicken thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish that never disappoints. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and the perfect seasoning, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, these chicken thighs are always a great choice!
Try this recipe today and enjoy crispy, juicy, and flavorful baked chicken thighs!