Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs

Why Make This Recipe

Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a versatile and affordable protein option. They are tender, juicy, and absorb flavors well, making them perfect for a simple and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy, quick, and requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a stress-free dinner option. Baking in the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and retains moisture, resulting in deliciously juicy thighs.

How to Make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven

Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat.
3. Rub olive oil over the thighs and season them evenly with the spice blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each piece.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. If desired, broil for an extra 2 to 3 minutes to achieve a lovely golden color.
7. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Serve these baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides. They pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For added flavor, drizzle a bit of lemon juice or serve with your preferred sauce. Feel free to slice the chicken and add it to wraps, bowls, or sandwiches for a quick lunch or dinner option.

How to Store Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked thighs. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

• Dry the Chicken: Patting the thighs dry helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture from steaming the chicken in the oven.
• Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, try to use fresh spices. If your spices are old, consider replacing them for a more vibrant taste.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked. This guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat meat.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by using different spices or marinades. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or use a spicy seasoning blend. You can also marinate the chicken thighs in your favorite sauce for a few hours before baking for an extra flavor boost!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. However, be aware that they may cook faster and can dry out more easily than thighs.

2. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken thighs overnight will enhance their flavor. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator.

3. What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken?
Reheat leftover chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but this might make the chicken a bit less juicy.

Oven-Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

Tender and juicy oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs that are easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat.
3. Rub olive oil over the thighs and season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring space between each piece.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Optionally, broil for an extra 2 to 3 minutes for a golden color.
7. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry for a better texture and use fresh spices for enhanced flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American