This chicken dish is simple and quick, cooking up tender thighs in just 30 minutes. The skin gets crispy while the meat stays juicy, making it a real winner for busy days!
I love tossing my favorite spices on the chicken and letting the oven do all the work. Pair it with a salad or some rice, and you’ve got a yummy meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give great flavor and keep the meat juicy. If you prefer, you can use skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the skin crisp up. You can use other oils like avocado or canola if you have a preference or for higher smoke points.
Garlic Powder: It’s a quick way to infuse flavor without peeling garlic. If you want a fresher taste, minced garlic works too—just adjust the amount. A clove of fresh garlic would do!
Spices: Paprika and thyme round out the seasoning. Try smoked paprika for a different flavor, or use your favorite spice blend. Italian seasoning is a great substitute if thyme isn’t available!
How Do I Achieve Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Getting that crispy skin is all about drying the chicken and using the right temperature. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove moisture before seasoning.
- A high oven temperature (425°F) helps render fat from the skin, making it crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the thighs space to cook evenly.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after baking helps keep the juices in, ensuring every bite is delicious!
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 paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you’ll have delicious, juicy chicken thighs ready in about 30-40 minutes, including resting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help get the skin nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove moisture, which is key for crispy skin.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. Stir it well so it’s evenly mixed.
4. Rub the Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs. Make sure to rub it in well, covering the thighs evenly. This helps the seasoning stick and adds flavor.
5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each chicken thigh. Press the seasoning gently into the meat to ensure it sticks.
6. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper, skin side up. Giving them space helps them cook evenly.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
8. Rest and Serve:
After taking the chicken out, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve hot!
Enjoy your easy and flavorful oven-baked chicken thighs!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, as they generally cook faster than bone-in thighs. Always check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Paprika?
No problem! If you’re out of paprika, you can substitute it with chili powder for a bit of heat or simply skip it entirely. The chicken will still be delicious with just the garlic powder and thyme!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight will add even more flavor. You can use a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a simple marinade. Just make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and baking to achieve that crispy skin!
