Crispy Baked Chicken

 Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful, and Perfect Every Time

If you’re craving crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs with tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth, this recipe is your answer. These oven-baked chicken thighs deliver mouthwatering flavor with minimal effort — making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and incredibly versatile.

Follow this foolproof guide to achieve perfectly seasoned, crispy-skinned chicken thighs that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat: Baking locks in moisture while ensuring the skin crisps up beautifully.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: A balanced seasoning blend creates a smoky, savory taste in every bite.

Easy Prep: Ready to bake in just 10 minutes with no complicated steps.

Versatile Pairings: Complements everything from roasted veggies to creamy mashed potatoes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need (with Purpose)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing flavor, texture, and crispiness:

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – The skin crisps up perfectly, while the bone helps retain moisture and flavor.

2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra crispiness) – Ensures a golden, crispy finish while adding rich flavor.

1 tsp salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors.

½ tsp black pepper – Adds warmth and depth.

1 tsp garlic powder – Infuses a savory, aromatic flavor.

1 tsp onion powder – Boosts the overall richness and complements the garlic.

1 tsp smoked paprika – Provides a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.

Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Brightens the dish with a fresh, herby touch.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key to achieving crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup or use a wire rack on the sheet for even air circulation.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this is crucial for crispy skin.

In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil (or melted butter) to ensure each piece is well-coated.

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra-crispy skin, broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Pro Tips for the Best Results

✅ Dry the chicken well: Removing excess moisture before seasoning is crucial for crispy skin.

✅ Use a wire rack: Elevating the chicken helps the heat circulate evenly, ensuring crispiness all around.

✅ Don’t skip the broil: A quick broil at the end intensifies the crispiness of the skin.

✅ Check the temperature: For precise doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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Serving Suggestions

These crispy baked chicken thighs are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Try serving them with:

Garlic mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting dinner.

Roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a healthy, balanced meal.

Cornbread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up any delicious juices.

For added flavor, drizzle with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or serve with a side of honey mustard sauce.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This crispy baked chicken thighs recipe combines simple ingredients with easy steps to deliver exceptional flavor and texture. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Give this recipe a try tonight, and enjoy a plate of perfectly crispy, juicy chicken that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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t questions or tips to share? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear how your baked chicken thighs turned out!