Easy Baked Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
373 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Baked Chicken Thighs
Description
Easy Baked Chicken Thighs are prepared by patting the chicken dry to promote browning, evenly coating with olive oil, and seasoning well with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste. The chicken is arranged skin-side up on a foil-lined baking sheet and baked at a moderately high temperature to render fat and crisp the skin while cooking the meat thoroughly.
Baking times vary depending on thigh size; smaller pieces may require less time while larger can take closer to 45 minutes. Using an instant read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 175°F removes guesswork. Resting the chicken off the heat for several minutes allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness.
This straightforward method results in flavorful and juicy chicken thighs without complicated preparation or marinating.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in skin on)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or more, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F and move the rack to the middle position. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towel. Place the chicken pieces on the baking sheet and coat them on both sides with olive oil. Season them generously with salt & pepper on both sides. Sprinkle the smoked paprika on the skin (and then rub it on).
- Bake, uncovered, skin side up, for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through. See recipe notes below for more info on timing. Optional: broil for a few more minutes to really crisp up the skin.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for 5-10 minutes prior to serving them (this ensures they will be juicy and tender).
Notes
- Check smaller chicken thighs for doneness after 25-30 minutes; larger ones may need up to 45 minutes.
- Use an instant-read thermometer aiming for an internal temperature of 175°F for juiciness.
- Two pounds of chicken thighs generally serves 4 to 6 people depending on serving size.
- Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 373 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 373kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 148mg | 49% |
| Sodium | 117mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 310mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 200IU | 4% |
| Calcium | 12mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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