Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs are a perfect mix of easy preparation and delicious taste, suitable for any meal. This dish consists of bone-in, skin-on thighs seasoned with common spices and Italian herbs, baked to crispy perfection outside and juicy tenderness inside.
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They pair wonderfully with various sides like vegetables, potatoes, or rice, creating a fulfilling meal. Quick to prepare, these chicken thighs are a delightful choice for both everyday family meals and special occasions.
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Ingredients and Substitutions Overview
To make these Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs, you'll need some basic seasonings and kitchen staples. Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor. If you prefer, boneless and skinless thighs are also a great option.
- Seasonings: Combine chili, cumin, coriander, black pepper, garlic, and ginger powder for a seasoning mix that offers a robust and enticing blend of spicy, warm, and earthy flavors.
- Lemon: A splash of lemon juice gives a zesty flavor. You can even add some lemon zest for an extra tangy kick. No lemon? Lime juice is a fine substitute.
- Italian Seasoning: This adds a distinctive, fresh taste. If unavailable, substitutes like oregano, basil, or other dried herbs work well.
- Fat: Olive oil or any neutral-tasting cooking oil is ideal. For a richer flavor, butter is an excellent choice.
How to Bake Chicken Thighs in Oven?
Dive into the delightful process of making Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with our step-by-step guide, complete with photos and a video to ensure your success. We'll start by preparing a flavorful seasoning mix, marinate the chicken to infuse rich flavors, and then bake it to perfection. Let's begin:
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Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For Seasoning
- 5 Chicken Thighs, bone-in and skin on
- ½ tsp Ginger Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Coriander Powder
- ½ tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
- ½ tsp Cumin Powder
- Salt, to taste
For Marination
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil, or your preferred oil
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice, or lime juice
For Garnishing
- Cilantro Leaves, coriander leaves
Instructions
To Prepare Seasoning and Marinate Chicken
- Begin by thoroughly mixing ginger, garlic, cumin, chili, coriander, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Ensure all the spices are well combined for a uniform flavor. Set this blend aside for later use.
- In a large mixing bowl, place your skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs. Drizzle them with fresh lemon juice and olive oil for added moisture and tang. Then, sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix over the chicken. Gently toss everything together, making sure each thigh is evenly coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Allow the seasoned chicken thighs to sit for at least 15 minutes, or longer if time allows. This resting period is crucial as it lets the spices and aromatics penetrate deep into the chicken.
To Bake Chicken Thighs
- Start by lining a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs on the tray. The parchment paper is not only for easy cleanup but also ensures the chicken cooks in its own moisture, enhancing tenderness.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the tray in the oven and bake the chicken for 35-45 minutes. To ensure it's fully cooked, use a kitchen thermometer; the chicken's internal temperature should be between 170-175°F. For those who love crispy skin, switch to broil mode for the final 3-5 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Once baked to perfection, take the chicken out of the oven. Elevate its flavors and presentation by garnishing with fresh cilantro or coriander leaves. Your delicious Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs are now ready to enjoy.
To Serve
- Serve your Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with simple, complementary sides for a complete meal. For more creative pairing ideas, refer to our serving suggestions section.
Recipe Video
Chef's Notes and Tips
- Prep Chicken Thighs: To achieve the best results, bring your chicken thighs to room temperature. Thaw them in the refrigerator, microwave, or under cold running water. Before seasoning, pat them dry with clean kitchen paper to help the seasonings adhere better.
- Seasonings: Don't hesitate to experiment! While the recipe suggests basic seasonings, feel free to try cajun, chili, teriyaki sauce, or your favorite blends for a personal touch.
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they'll be.
- Even Cooking: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on the baking sheet or dish. This ensures even cooking and crisping of the skin.
- Achieving Crispy Skin: To ensure your chicken thighs have a perfectly crispy exterior, bake them without a cover. This exposure to direct heat in the oven is key to crisping up the skin while cooking the meat evenly.
- Resting the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Baking Time for Chicken Thighs: For perfectly cooked chicken thighs, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake them for 35-45 minutes. Ensure a safe internal temperature of 170°F (as recommended by the NCC) using a thermometer. For crispier skin, switch to broil mode for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, crisping up the skin beautifully.
Nutrition Info
Disclaimer
We're not nutrition experts, and the nutritional information provided is an estimate. Please use it as a guide. For precise details, it's best to consult a professional. To learn more, please view our Detailed Disclaimers.
Discover a variety of chicken dinner recipes, ranging from rich baked dishes to zesty stir-fries. Each recipe features distinct flavors and textures, transforming your meals into unforgettable culinary adventures.
Serving Suggestions
Discover the perfect companions for your Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with these serving suggestions. Whether you're craving something hearty or light, find the ideal pairing to complete your meal:
- Classic Sides: Pair with vegetable-based sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed white rice, brown rice, for a comforting, balanced meal.
- Salad Pairings: Accompany with a fresh garden salad, Caesar salad, or a tangy coleslaw to add a refreshing crunch.
- Grain Options: Quinoa, couscous, or a pilaf can offer a wholesome and hearty addition to the meal.
- Pasta Accompaniments: Pair with a light pasta dish, like spaghetti aglio e olio or a simple tomato basil pasta, for an Italian-inspired dinner.
- Bread Selections: Freshly baked bread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
- Sauce Ideas: Offer a dipping sauce like BBQ, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli to enhance the flavors.
- Lighter Fare: For a lighter option, serve atop a bed of mixed greens or with a side of steamed asparagus or green beans.
- International Twist: For a global flair, pair with Mexican-style rice, Asian-inspired stir-fried veggies, or a Middle Eastern tabbouleh.
Storage Suggestions
Freshly baked chicken thighs are best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. For reheating, use the microwave or oven to warm them up and crisp the skin.
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