Are you tired of dry, bland chicken that leaves you disappointed at the dinner table? Get ready to revolutionize your cooking with these mouthwatering Baked Crispy Chicken Thighs that promise restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen! This foolproof recipe transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a crispy, golden masterpiece that's so delicious, your family will be begging for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and some pro cooking techniques, you'll create a meal that looks and tastes like it was prepared by a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack inside for optimal air circulation.
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create a seasoning blend.
- Rub chicken thighs with olive oil, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, gently massaging the spices into the meat.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other to allow proper heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning - moisture is the enemy of crispy skin!
- Use a wire rack when baking to allow hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring an even, crisp exterior.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking to promote more consistent cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each thigh enough space to crisp up properly.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety without overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- For extra flavor, experiment with different spice blends or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
