Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Baking Sheet
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. (This allows heat to circulate for even crisping.)
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry—this helps create a crispy skin.
- Rub olive oil over each chicken thigh.
- Sprinkle chicken seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Arrange chicken skin-side up on the wire rack.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Broil for Extra Crispiness
- Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
🥗 Healthy Pairing: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
🥔 Classic Comfort: Pair with roasted potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes.
🌮 Meal Prep Idea: Shred the chicken and use it for tacos, wraps, or salads.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken thighs in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 400°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Chicken Thigh)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 280mg
FAQs
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes as they cook faster.
2. How do I make the skin extra crispy?
- Dry the skin completely with paper towels before seasoning.
- Bake on a wire rack so air circulates around the chicken.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
3. Can I use different seasonings?
Absolutely! Try lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, or garlic powder for variety.
4. Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Get crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs baked to perfection with just olive oil, seasonings, and high heat!
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Aluminum foil
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (5-6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2-3 tsp chicken seasoning or Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil over thighs.
- Season with chicken seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Place skin-side up on the baking rack and bake for 35-40 minutes (until internal temp reaches 165°F).
- Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, dry the chicken well before seasoning.
- Store leftovers for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.