Description
Succulent Baked Chicken Thighs bring Mediterranean magic to dinner tables with golden-brown, herb-crusted perfection. Crispy skin and juicy meat create a simple yet elegant meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Garnish:
- 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oven to a robust 400°F, preparing a spacious baking sheet with potential parchment paper coverage for easier cleanup.
- Thoroughly eliminate excess moisture from chicken thighs using clean kitchen towels, ensuring maximum seasoning adherence.
- Generously massage extra virgin olive oil across every surface of the chicken, creating a smooth foundation for the spice blend.
- Craft a robust seasoning mixture combining garlic powder, onion powder, smoky paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Distribute the spice blend meticulously, coating each thigh with an even, generous layer that promises deep flavor penetration.
- Position chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, allowing sufficient spacing between pieces for optimal heat circulation.
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, roasting for approximately 35-40 minutes until the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For an irresistibly golden and crisp exterior, activate the broiler for a swift 2-3 minute finale, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and permit the chicken to rest momentarily, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness before serving.
Notes
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry to ensure crispy, golden-brown skin that’s irresistibly crunchy.
- Try different herb and spice combinations like rosemary, thyme, or za’atar for global flavor variations.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken without drying out the meat, ensuring juicy results every time.
- For low-carb or keto diets, skip any additional breading and rely on the natural skin for crunch and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg