Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make chicken recipe that delivers perfectly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat? These Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs are the answer! With simple spices and a quick prep time, this recipe transforms chicken thighs into a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a comforting, complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe keeps things simple yet packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
This chicken thigh recipe is loved for its crispy, golden skin and juicy, flavorful meat. Here’s why it’s a hit:
- Perfectly Crispy Skin: Achieved by drying the chicken and using a high-temperature oven, the skin turns out irresistibly crisp.
- Rich, Smoky Flavor: Smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme give the chicken a deliciously savory and aromatic taste.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Just a handful of ingredients and less than an hour are all you need to make this dish.
- Versatile Side Pairings: These chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
- One-Pan Clean-Up: Simply line your baking sheet, and clean-up is as easy as can be!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe brings out the best in chicken thighs, thanks to a few key techniques. By patting the chicken dry, you remove excess moisture, which is essential for achieving a crispy skin. The spice rub is a simple but effective combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme, creating a flavorful crust that locks in moisture. Baking at a high temperature helps render the fat beneath the skin, creating a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. These steps make the recipe easy yet incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make these crispy baked chicken thighs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Bone-in thighs retain moisture and flavor, while the skin crisps up beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the chicken.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings a savory, aromatic flavor to the spice mix.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet note that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Gives the chicken an earthy, aromatic quality.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
This recipe is simple, but each step is important for achieving the perfect crispy skin and juicy meat. Here’s how to make it:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, which is key to achieving crispy skin. This step helps the skin brown and crisp up better in the oven.
3. Make the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. This spice mixture will add flavor to both the skin and the meat of the chicken.
4. Season the Chicken
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring both the skin and the meat underneath are well-coated. This even distribution of spices gives each bite full flavor.
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking the thighs skin-side up allows the skin to become crispy while the meat stays moist and tender.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)
For an extra crispy finish, place the chicken thighs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Let Rest and Serve
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your chicken thighs turn out perfectly:
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Removing moisture is essential for crispy skin, so don’t skip this step.
- Use a High Temperature: Baking at 425°F helps render the fat in the skin, making it crispy and golden.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave space between the chicken thighs on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and air circulation.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe and juicy results.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy baked chicken thighs are versatile and pair well with a range of sides to create a balanced, satisfying meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts make a delicious, easy side dish that complements the flavors of the chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and pair perfectly with the rich, savory flavors of the chicken.
- Steamed Rice and Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the chicken with steamed rice and a fresh green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, and you won’t achieve the same crispy skin as with bone-in, skin-on thighs.
Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts?
A: You can, but the cooking time will vary. Check the internal temperature frequently to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy texture.
Q: Can I use other spices?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cayenne pepper, onion powder, or rosemary for added flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the skin from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: Use parchment paper or foil on the baking sheet and apply a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prep the chicken by seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the pan?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables like baby potatoes or carrots to the pan. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size to ensure even cooking.
Q: How can I make this dish lower in fat?
A: You can reduce the olive oil slightly or use a cooking spray, though the oil helps with crispiness.
Q: What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
A: Regular paprika works fine, but smoked paprika adds a unique flavor that’s worth trying if available.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and thyme brings a rich depth of flavor, while baking at high heat ensures irresistibly crispy skin and juicy meat. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a reliable, delicious dinner that everyone will love. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a satisfying, home-cooked meal in no time.
So, get ready to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken thighs that are as delicious as they are easy to make!
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Dinner
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
These crispy baked chicken thighs are seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, then baked to perfection with a golden, crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a perfect main dish for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both the skin and the meat underneath.
5. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
**Tip:** Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal!
**Cooking Tip:** For an extra crispy finish, place the thighs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40