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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

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These Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs are juicy on the inside and perfectly golden and crisp on the outside—no frying required! With simple pantry spices and a hot oven, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-style results with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd, this chicken thigh recipe is a must-have in your regular rotation.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course, Dinner
  • Method: Oven-Baked, Roasted
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
  2. Pat chicken thighs very dry with paper towels—this helps achieve extra crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs (if using).
  4. Rub seasoning mixture all over chicken thighs, including under the skin for more flavor.
  5. Arrange chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
  6. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until skin is golden and a thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley.

Notes

  • Crispiness tip: Dry the skin very well and bake at high heat for best results.
  • Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air to circulate under the chicken for even crisping.
  • To add heat, include chili powder or a pinch of cayenne in the seasoning blend.
  • You can substitute melted butter for olive oil for richer flavor.
  • Glaze with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes for a sticky, sweet finish.

Nutrition

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