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Close-up of perfectly seasoned and crispy baked chicken thighs, ready to be served.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks who want a reliable, flavorful chicken dinner with minimal prep. The high-heat baking method delivers crispy skin and juicy meat, making it ideal for shareable meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390

Ingredients
  

Chicken Thighs
  • 3 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs about 6 to 8 pieces
Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Foil
  • Small bowl
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with foil.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs very dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
  3. Arrange the chicken thighs skin side up on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there is space between each piece.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it evenly over all surfaces.
  5. In a small bowl, combine salt, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and paprika.
  6. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over each chicken thigh. Press lightly so it sticks.
  7. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp and the juices run clear.
  8. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching bone.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep the juices inside.

Notes

For extra crisp skin, you can place the chicken under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching it closely. Always cook chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.