Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
254 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs
Description
Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs use skinless pieces coated in olive oil and a spice mix including garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. The chicken is arranged in a single layer and baked at 400°F until cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165ºF. The combination of spices gives the chicken a smoky, mildly spicy flavor while the baking method keeps the meat moist.
The recipe suggests serving the thighs immediately to enjoy their juiciness. They can also be shredded cold for salads or gently reheated to prevent drying. The fat in the thighs melts during baking, enhancing flavor and moisture without needing to be trimmed off.
This recipe is versatile for dinners and can be prepared in advance with leftovers stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The notes recommend careful reheating to preserve tenderness.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thigh boneless, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt or ½ teaspoon of any other salt, including Morton kosher salt, Diamond Crystal brand
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika not regular paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin ground
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl.
- Add the olive oil and spices. Use your hands to coat the chicken.
- Arrange the seasoned thighs in a single layer on a rimmed baking dish, such as a 9 X 13-inch baking dish. If there's some residual oil and spice mixture in the bowl, brush it on the chicken pieces.
- Bake until the thighs are cooked through, juices run clear, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the middle of the largest thigh reads 165ºF. In my oven, this takes about 30 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Baking various sized chicken thighs together is fine; smaller pieces remain juicy when the largest are fully cooked.
- Leaving some fat on the thighs during baking adds flavor and helps prevent dryness.
- Use smoked paprika for its distinctive flavor; do not substitute with regular paprika.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days; they can be shredded cold for salads or reheated gently at 50% microwave power or in a 350°F oven to avoid drying.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 254 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4ounces | |
| Calories | 254kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 26g | 52% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 602mg | 25% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.