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BEST BAKED CHICKEN THIGHS

Best Baked Chicken Thighs for Crispy, Juicy Perfection

These BEST BAKED CHICKEN THIGHS offer a satisfying dish with a crispy exterior and juicy flavor, ideal for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Essential for juiciness and flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Can substitute with melted butter
For the Spice Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Use regular paprika for a milder taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Fresh onion can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Fresh oregano may be used
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme Fresh thyme can work as well
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for best results
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly cracked is preferred

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to achieve a crispy exterior.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
  4. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Rub the spice mix generously over and under the skin of each chicken thigh.
  6. Bake the chicken thighs for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Broil the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
  8. Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, use a meat thermometer and ensure chicken is dried before seasoning.

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