This oven-baked chicken thighs recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare a flavorful meal. The chicken thighs are seasoned and baked to perfection, resulting in juicy meat with crispy skin.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Preparation for Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Getting ready to make oven-baked chicken thighs is a breeze. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients, which include bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, olive oil, and a selection of spices. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper creates a delightful flavor profile.
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crispy skin. While the oven heats up, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is key to achieving that perfect crunch on the outside.
Seasoning the Chicken
Once the chicken is dry, it’s time to season it. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil with the spices. This flavorful blend will not only enhance the taste of the chicken but also help in achieving a beautiful golden-brown color during baking.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them thoroughly. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding dried thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of taste.
Baking to Perfection
After seasoning, place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes.
Keep an eye on the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. The skin will turn crispy and golden, creating an inviting appearance that’s hard to resist.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the meat remains moist and tender.
For a colorful and nutritious side, consider serving the chicken with roasted vegetables. A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini adds vibrant colors and complements the savory chicken beautifully. The combination not only looks appealing but also provides a well-rounded meal.
Creating a Warm Atmosphere
Presentation plays a significant role in enjoying your meal. Serve the golden-brown chicken thigh on a white plate, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. The contrast between the crispy skin and the bright greens enhances the visual appeal.
Setting your table with rustic wooden elements can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This simple touch transforms your dining experience, making it feel special and warm, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.
Nutritional Benefits
This oven-baked chicken thigh recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides approximately 320 calories, with a healthy balance of protein and fats. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, making them an excellent choice for a satisfying meal.
With minimal carbohydrates, this dish fits well into various dietary preferences, allowing for flexibility in meal planning. Enjoying this meal can be both a treat and a step towards maintaining a balanced diet.
Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
These chicken thighs are seasoned with a blend of spices and baked in the oven until golden brown. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme or rosemary if using. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 0g