Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Name: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs (skin-on); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter (diced)

Published: December 14, 2025

by Sofia

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These Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and healthy option for any family meal! Simple to prepare, they yield juicy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers ease without sacrificing taste. Enjoy the savory blend of spices that makes these thighs stand out, while keeping your meal low-carb and keto-friendly.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a tasty meal ready in under an hour.
Juicy and Flavorful: The blend of seasonings ensures each bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
Versatile Dish: These chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides, making them suitable for any occasion.
Healthy Option: Low in carbs and high in protein, they fit perfectly into keto and low-carb diets.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these chicken thighs, making them an easy choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some key pieces of equipment that will help you achieve perfect oven-baked chicken thighs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.
Aluminum foil: Makes cleanup easier and helps retain moisture during cooking.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine seasonings thoroughly for even flavor.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients

These Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are easy to make and come out so juicy and flavorful! Great for a healthy family dinner, and keto/low carb friendly, too.

For the Seasoning Mix

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried parsley
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

2 pounds chicken thighs (6-8 pieces, patted dry)
1 tablespoon butter (diced)

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet or large pan with foil. Place it in the oven as it heats up; this helps create a hot surface for the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil with all the seasoning ingredients. Mix until a paste forms.

Step 3: Season the Chicken Thighs

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning (you may need to work in batches). Toss to coat each thigh evenly. Remove each piece individually, ensuring you rub the seasoning into the skin for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on your heated pan. Dot each thigh with diced butter. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove from oven carefully and baste with juices from the pan. Return to bake for another 10 minutes before basting again. Finally, bake for an additional 5-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Enjoy these delicious Oven Baked Chicken Thighs as part of your next family meal!

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether for a casual family meal or a special occasion, these juicy thighs can be paired with various sides and sauces to enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons create a classic pairing.
Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a refreshing touch.
Spinach Salad: Toss together fresh spinach, nuts, and berries for a nutritious option.

With Sauces

BBQ Sauce: Brush on your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
Garlic Butter: Drizzle melted garlic butter over the thighs for an added richness.
Honey Mustard: A blend of honey and mustard offers a sweet and tangy kick.

In Tacos

Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken thighs and serve in corn tortillas with salsa and avocado.
Burrito Bowls: Use the chicken as a base for burrito bowls topped with rice, beans, and veggies.

As Sandwiches

Chicken Sliders: Serve small sandwiches with coleslaw for a fun finger food option.
Wraps: Roll the chicken in tortillas with fresh veggies for an easy lunch.

How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Perfecting your Oven Baked Chicken Thighs is simple with just a few tips. These suggestions will help you achieve that ideal balance of juiciness and flavor.

bold Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated helps the chicken cook evenly.
bold Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Drying the chicken skin allows the seasoning to stick better and promotes crispiness.
bold Use High Heat: Baking at 400°F ensures that the thighs cook through while developing a nice golden brown skin.
bold Baste During Cooking: Basting helps keep the chicken moist and enhances its flavor by redistributing juices.
bold Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking keeps it juicy when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with your Oven Baked Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

bold Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted until tender make for a colorful plate.
bold Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up any delicious juices from the chicken.
bold Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds texture and nutrition to your meal.
bold Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
bold Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauces or juices from your dish.
bold Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of baked thighs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the drying step: Not patting the chicken thighs dry can lead to soggy skin. Always ensure they’re patted dry before seasoning.
Using cold pans: Adding chicken to a cold pan prevents proper searing and can affect texture. Preheat your baking sheet for a crispy finish.
Ignoring internal temperature: Relying solely on cooking time can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many thighs in one pan can cause steaming instead of baking. Cook in batches if necessary to allow even heat distribution.
Neglecting seasoning: Skipping or skimping on seasoning may lead to bland chicken. Ensure even coating for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Place cooled chicken thighs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water for moisture, heating until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about making Oven Baked Chicken Thighs. Here are some common inquiries:

How long do I bake Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

Baking typically takes about 35 minutes total—20 minutes initially and then an additional 10-15 minutes after basting.

Can I use skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use skinless thighs, but they may not be as crispy. Adjust cooking time as needed since skinless thighs cook faster.

What should I serve with Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?

These chicken thighs pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Are Oven Baked Chicken Thighs healthy?

Absolutely! They are packed with protein and can easily fit into low-carb and keto diets when prepared without high-calorie sauces.

Final Thoughts

These Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any family dinner. Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy this easy recipe that brings comfort and satisfaction to your table!

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