Description
Enjoy juicy, tender chicken thighs with irresistibly crispy skin, perfectly seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme, all baked to perfection in your oven.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs
- 6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasoning & Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a high temperature that will help the chicken skin crisp up beautifully as it bakes.
- Dry the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly using paper towels. Removing moisture is essential for achieving that coveted crispy skin texture.
- Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them well until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to help the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken thighs as a fresh, colorful garnish before serving.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry is critical for crispy skin; skipping this step may result in soggy skin.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Letting the chicken rest after baking keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Parchment paper simplifies clean-up and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.