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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
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Discover how to make perfectly golden, juicy, and flavorful Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs using simple ingredients and easy steps. This foolproof recipe guarantees tender meat with irresistibly crispy skin, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika

Optional Herbs and Variations

  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (a few sprigs, optional)
  • Cayenne pepper or chili powder (1/4 tsp for spicy kick, optional)
  • Lemon zest and fresh parsley (for lemon herb variation, optional)
  • Soy sauce, ginger, and honey (for Asian-inspired marinade, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove all moisture, which is essential for achieving crispy skin.
  2. Season the Thighs: Drizzle olive oil evenly over the chicken pieces, rubbing it on all sides. Generously sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the skin and meat. If using fresh herbs, tuck them under the skin or place around the chicken.
  3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. Ensure the pieces have enough space to allow air circulation and prevent steaming.
  4. Bake Until Crispy: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the chicken for 35 to 45 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crackly. Confirm doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) with a food thermometer.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat when served.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken skin completely before seasoning to maximize crispiness.
  • Use a wire rack to allow hot air circulation underneath, preventing soggy skin.
  • Baking at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C) helps brown the skin quickly while keeping the meat juicy.
  • Season generously with salt and spices to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • For freezing, wrap each cooked thigh tightly and store up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in a 375°F oven on a wire rack to maintain crisp skin; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, baked chicken recipe, juicy chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/crispy-baked-chicken-thighs/