Description
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of garlic, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and parsley, then baked to perfection. This simple yet delicious recipe ensures tender meat with crispy skin, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (6-8 pieces, patted dry)
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet or a large rimmed pan with foil and place it in the oven as it heats up. Heating the pan beforehand will help sear the chicken when placed on it.
- Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until a thick paste forms.
- Season chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning mix. Toss them thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. If the bowl is not large enough, work in batches. After tossing, remove each thigh and rub the seasoning paste into the skin to intensify the flavor.
- Bake: Carefully take the heated baking pan out of the oven (it will be hot!). Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on the pan skin-side up, and dot each piece with diced butter. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Baste: Remove the chicken from the oven and carefully baste each thigh with the juices that have collected in the pan. This helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Return the pan to bake for another 10 minutes.
- Final bake: Baste the chicken again using the pan juices, then continue baking for an additional 5 to 15 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning to achieve crispier skin.
- Using a hot baking pan helps to sear the skin, locking in flavor and moisture.
- Basting the chicken with its juices throughout cooking keeps the meat juicy and enhances flavor.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
