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:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure the chicken develops a crisp skin.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step helps the skin crisp up during baking.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). This is your seasoning blend.
- 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.
- Generously season the chicken with your seasoning mix, rubbing it into the skin and meat to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Place the chicken thighs, skin-side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- 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.
- 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!
