Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs, a must-try dish! Crispy on the outside and juicy within, these thighs are seasoned with basic spices and Italian herbs, then baked with olive oil or butter. Perfect for any meal, they pair wonderfully with sides like vegetables, potatoes, or rice, creating a deliciously balanced feast.
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.
Notes
Here are some tips to make your Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs a hit:
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.