Description
Succulent baked chicken thighs deliver a mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired feast with robust herbs and zesty seasonings. Crispy skin and tender meat promise a delightful meal that satisfies hunger and delights palates with minimal kitchen effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Oils and Herbs:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup and minimal sticking.
- Thoroughly blot chicken thighs with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring optimal seasoning adherence and crispy skin.
- Create a robust seasoning blend by combining aromatic spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, along with salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then massage the spice mixture uniformly, coating every surface of the meat for maximum flavor infusion.
- Arrange the seasoned thighs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to promote even heat circulation and consistent cooking.
- Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400F (200C), allowing the chicken to roast for approximately 35-40 minutes until the skin turns golden and crisp.
- Verify doneness by checking the internal temperature reaches 165F (74C) using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
- For an extra layer of crispiness, activate the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring tender, succulent meat before serving.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is completely dry before seasoning to achieve crispy, golden-brown skin that locks in moisture and develops deep flavor.
- Adjust cooking time for bone-in versus boneless thighs, typically reducing time by 5-10 minutes for boneless cuts to prevent drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise doneness, avoiding overcooking which can lead to tough, rubbery chicken texture.
- Experiment with alternative spice blends like za’atar, Italian herbs, or Caribbean jerk seasoning to transform the dish’s flavor profile without changing core technique.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg