If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly dinner idea, these Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs are the perfect choice. With juicy meat, golden crispy skin, and simple pantry spices, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy prep with just a few ingredients
- Healthier than fried chicken – baked in the oven, not deep fried
- Perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat
- Affordable family dinner option
- Pairs well with many side dishes
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5–3 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne pepper (for a spicy version)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, or thyme) for garnish
🔥 Instructions – How to Bake Crispy Chicken Thighs
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if you want extra crispiness.
- Prepare chicken thighs: Pat them completely dry with paper towels. Dry skin = crispy skin.
- Season: Mix all the spices in a small bowl. Drizzle chicken thighs with olive oil, then coat evenly with the seasoning mix. Rub gently with your hands to ensure full coverage.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place chicken thighs skin-side up, leaving space between them.
- Bake: Cook for 35–45 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Optional crispiness boost: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest & Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp green salad.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice or a touch of honey for extra flavor.
- Great for meal prep – store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Flavor Variations
- Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs – Add honey and garlic for a sweet-savory glaze.
- BBQ Chicken Thighs – Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Mediterranean Style – Season with oregano, lemon zest, and olive oil.
- Spicy Cajun Chicken – Use Cajun seasoning and cayenne for bold flavor.
Final Thoughts
This oven-baked chicken thighs recipe is the ultimate combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even Sunday meal prep. Affordable, delicious, and easy to customize – this is one chicken recipe you’ll make again and again.