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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs – Juicy Inside, Perfectly Golden Outside

When it comes to easy, reliable dinners, oven baked chicken thighs are hard to beat. They’re affordable, flavorful, and incredibly forgiving, making them perfect for both beginner cooks and busy home kitchens. With the right seasoning and oven temperature, chicken thighs turn irresistibly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients and bold flavor. No complicated steps, no marinades that take hours—just well-seasoned chicken thighs baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual gathering, these crispy oven baked chicken thighs fit every occasion. If you love easy chicken recipes, crispy baked chicken, and hands-off oven meals, this dish will quickly become one of your most-used recipes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Prepare and measure all ingredients before cooking.
Protein
  • 8 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Ingredient Notes:
  • Bone-in skin-on thighs provide maximum flavor and juiciness.
  • Paprika helps achieve a beautiful golden color.
  • Olive oil helps crisp the skin evenly.

Equipment

  • To make perfect oven baked chicken thighs, you’ll need:
  • Baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer (recommended)
  • Tip: Using a rack on the baking sheet helps air circulate for extra crispiness.

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy oven baked chicken thighs.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  2. This step is key for crispy skin.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
  1. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and rub evenly over the skin.
  3. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano evenly over the chicken.
  4. Rub seasoning into all sides.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
  1. Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Space them evenly to avoid steaming.
Step 5: Bake
  1. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until:
  2. Skin is crispy and golden
  3. Internal temperature reaches doneness
Step 6: Optional Extra Crisp
  1. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
  2. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes
This keeps the skin crispy
Tip: Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve crispiness.
🥄 Variations
Customize your oven baked chicken thighs with these options:
Lemon Herb Chicken
Add lemon zest and thyme
Spicy Chicken Thighs
Add chili flakes or extra paprika
Garlic Lover’s Version
Add fresh minced garlic
Mediterranean Style
Add oregano and a squeeze of lemon after baking
Boneless Option
Use boneless thighs and reduce cooking time by 10 minutes
❓ 10 FAQs
Why use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
They’re juicier and more forgiving.
Do I need to flip the chicken?
No, baking skin-side up is best.
How do I know they’re done?
The juices run clear and skin is crisp.
Can I marinate them first?
Yes, but it’s not required.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild.
Can I add vegetables to the pan?
Yes, just space them well.
Why is my skin not crispy?
Chicken may not have been dry enough.
Can I freeze cooked chicken thighs?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
What goes well with this dish?
Salads, vegetables, or rice-style sides.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use two baking sheets.
🏁 Conclusion
These oven baked chicken thighs prove that simple cooking can still deliver big flavor. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and perfectly balanced seasoning, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just want a dependable dinner option, this dish delivers comfort, ease, and delicious results every time.