Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy meal. These chicken thighs are super crispy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. With just a few ingredients you can have dinner on the table in no time. This recipe is a healthier alternative to the fried chicken I love. It’s generously seasoned with a blend of seasoning that give it the most flavorful taste. Walk with me as I show you how to make this easy dinner.
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Jump to Recipe Print RecipeHow to Make Crispy Oven Baked Thighs
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs: juicy cut of poultry that remains tender while baking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that adds rich flavor and allow the seasoning to adhere to the chicken.
Onion Powder: the onion powder provides onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
Garlic Powder: the garlic powder adds garlic flavor that distributes that adds rich flavor to the chicken.
Paprika: Adds a hint of sweetness and give the chicken a beautiful color.
Parsley Flakes: Dried parsley leaves that add a mild, fresh herb flavor and a touch of color to the chicken.
Thyme: Thyme is an aromatic herb enhancing the depth of flavor.
Black Pepper: the black pepper adds a familiar flavor and add a bit of kick to the chicken.
Salt: the salt enhances the flavors of all other ingredients and is crucial for balancing the overall taste of the dish.
What You Will Need
Instructions for Crispy Oven Baked Thighs
*Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
1. Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, parsley flakes, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix the seasonings until well combined.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Ensure your chicken thighs are thoroughly washed and dried. Coat each piece of chicken evenly with olive oil.
3. Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well coated.
4. Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking dish with a wire rack. The wire rack will help your thighs cook more evenly and yield crispier skin. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken thighs for 45 to 50 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
What to Eat With Crispy Oven Baked Chicken
Crispy baked chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of hearty side dishes that complement their rich, savory flavor. One classic option is baked mac and cheese, which offers a creamy, cheesy contrast to the crispiness of the chicken. The tender pasta and gooey cheese sauce provide comfort food at its best, making it an ideal side dish. Another excellent pairing is dirty rice, a Cajun-inspired dish made with rice, ground meat, and flavorful seasonings. The spiciness and robust flavors of dirty rice create a satisfying balance with the crispy chicken, adding a touch of Southern flair to your meal.
For a more rustic and earthy combination, consider serving roasted potatoes alongside your chicken. The crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior of the potatoes mirror the texture of the chicken, while their subtle seasoning allows the chicken to shine. Fried cabbage adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, while collard greens bring a slightly bitter, smoky flavor to the plate, creating a well-rounded meal. Both vegetables are traditional Southern sides that not only enhance the flavor profile of the crispy baked chicken but also add essential nutrients to the dish. Together, these sides create a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
What Temperature should you bake chicken thighs?
For this recipe I baked the chicken thighs at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This allow the chicken to both cook evenly on the inside while forming a crispy coating on the outside. It has been recommended to cook the chicken at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a crispy coating but I prefer to lower the temperature slightly as to not dry out the inside.
How to store crispy oven baked chicken thighs
To store crispy baked chicken thighs while preserving their flavor and texture, follow these steps:
Allow the chicken thighs to cool to room temperature after baking. Storing them while they are still hot can cause condensation, leading to soggy skin. Place the cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container. You can use plastic containers, glass containers, or resealable plastic bags. If stacking the thighs, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the chicken within 3 to 4 days. The cold temperature will keep the chicken fresh while maintaining its flavor. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken thighs. Wrap each thigh individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken thighs can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they are heated through and the skin is crispy again. If reheating from frozen, allow the thighs to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Try These Other Great Recipes
- Oven Baked BBQ Chicken – BBQ chicken that tastes just as good as chicken off the grill.
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken – these crispy wings are perfect for game day or any day of the week.
- General Tso’s Chicken – this Asian classic dish is easy to make and delicious.
- Smothered Chicken – this comforting soul food and southern classic will have you coming back for seconds.
- Perfect Fried Chicken – Crispy, golden fried chicken that everyone will love.