Baked Chicken Thighs with Seasoning

Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Baked Chicken Thighs with Seasoning that delivers juicy, tender meat with a crisp, flavorful skin.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for even browning and moisture retention)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a deep, smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herb, such as rosemary or oregano)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 lemon (cut into wedges, for serving)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the chicken develops a crisp skin.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps the skin crisp up during baking.
3. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). This is your seasoning blend.
4. Rub the olive oil evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both the skin and the underside. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning.
5. Generously season the chicken with your seasoning mix, rubbing it into the skin and meat to ensure every bite is flavorful.
6. Place the chicken thighs, skin-side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat, and the skin is golden and crispy. For even crispier skin, broil the chicken on high for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving:

Serve the baked chicken thighs with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrus, and pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Would you like to tweak the seasoning mix or cooking method? Let me know!