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Easy • Chicken

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Achieve perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat with these simple, flavorful baked chicken thighs.

Prep
10 min
Cook
35 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Who doesn't love a good crispy chicken thigh? This recipe delivers on all fronts: tender, juicy meat with incredibly crispy skin, all achieved effortlessly in your oven. It’s a foundational recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your rotation, pairing beautifully with almost any side dish.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and place a wire rack on top (if you have one, this helps with crispiness).

  2. Step 2

    Pat chicken thighs very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy skin! In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.

  3. Step 3

    Rub the seasoning mixture generously over all sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring the skin is well coated.

  4. Step 4

    Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack (or directly on the baking sheet if not using a rack), ensuring they are not touching.

  5. Step 5

    Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) and the skin is deeply golden brown and crispy. If skin isn't crisping enough, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

  6. Step 6

    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips

  • Don't skip patting the chicken dry; excess moisture prevents crispy skin.
  • Using a wire rack helps air circulate, ensuring crispiness all around.
  • Feel free to customize the spice blend with your favorite herbs or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

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