These oven-baked chicken thighs are juicy, tasty, and oh-so-easy to make! In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready, with nice crispy skin and tender meat.
I love how simple this recipe is—just season, bake, and enjoy! Plus, my family always fights over the leftovers. Who knew chicken could be the star of the show? 🐔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can work, but they may cook faster, so watch them closely.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the skin crisp up nicely. You can substitute avocado oil for a higher smoke point or any neutral oil for the same effect.
Garlic Powder: A great way to add garlic flavor without the hassle of chopping. Fresh minced garlic is a good alternative; just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste, as fresh garlic can be stronger.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work for a bit of spice. I love the smokiness, so I recommend sticking with smoked if you can!
Dried Oregano: A classic herb that complements chicken wonderfully. If you’re out, Italian seasoning can serve as a substitute.
How Do You Get Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
To achieve that perfect crispy skin, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry. The moisture from the skin can prevent it from getting that lovely crispiness.
- Use high heat—425°F (220°C) is ideal. This helps render the fat under the skin and make it golden brown.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Giving the thighs space allows hot air to circulate around them, which is essential for crispiness.
Once you’ve baked them, letting them rest for a few minutes helps keep the juices locked in, making every bite juicy and flavorful!
Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time, making a total time of roughly 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to ensure that the skin gets nice and crispy when it bakes.
3. Mixing the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix to blend all the flavors together!
4. Seasoning the Thighs:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, rubbing it evenly so they’re well coated. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the thighs, pressing the spices lightly into the skin to help them stick.
5. Baking the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side up on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each piece. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a beautiful golden brown, crispy skin.
6. Resting and Serving:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in all those tasty juices! Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick if you like.
Enjoy your flavorful, crispy oven-baked chicken thighs ready in just 30 minutes!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind that they will not be as crispy. You may need to reduce the cooking time slightly as well, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is your target!
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add other spices like onion powder, cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Just make sure any substitutions complement the chicken well!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Cook These Chicken Thighs on the Grill Instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the seasoned chicken thighs over medium heat. Just make sure to cook them until they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid flare-ups from the skin!}
