Oven Baked Chicken Thighs (Ultimate Guide)

It was a rainy Tuesday when the fridge was nearly bare, but I still needed dinner on the table fast. Out came the chicken thighs, a few trusty pantry spices, and the oven. Forty-five minutes later, the house smelled like comfort. Juicy, crispy-skinned oven baked chicken thighs saved the day and made us all forget it was just a regular weeknight.

This recipe is simple, satisfying, and easy to repeat any time. With only 10 minutes of prep and one pan, you’ll have six flavorful servings ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or Sunday meal prep. Want to skip ahead? Jump to the recipe card or scroll for helpful tips, serving ideas, and pro tricks.

Ingredients Overview

What makes this recipe shine is its balance of garlic, paprika, and herbs. Olive oil locks in moisture while helping the seasoning form a flavorful crust. And if you want extra richness? Just dot a little butter on top.

The mix of pantry spices keeps things easy but punchy. Garlic and onion powder lay the base. Italian seasoning and dried parsley add herby notes. Paprika brings warmth, and salt and pepper tie it all together.

Full Ingredient List

• 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
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 pounds chicken thighs (6–8 pieces), patted dry
• 1 tablespoon butter, diced (optional)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Don’t have Italian seasoning? Oregano works just fine. The parsley is flexible too feel free to skip it or use thyme instead.

Olive oil is great here, but canola or avocado oil will also work. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the butter. It’s optional but gives a lovely finish if used.

Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give the best texture and flavor. The skin crisps up beautifully, and the bone keeps the meat juicy.

Using boneless or skinless? That’s fine too, but reduce the cook time by about 5–7 minutes. Just keep an eye on the internal temp—it should still hit 165°F.

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Step 1 – Prep and Season

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While that’s heating, line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place it in the oven to get hot.

In a large bowl, mix olive oil and all the seasonings into a thick paste. Add the chicken thighs and toss until every piece is well coated. Then take a moment to rub the seasoning into the skin. It’s worth the extra effort.

Step 2 – Bake and Baste

Carefully place the seasoned thighs on the hot baking sheet. Add a few butter dots if you’re using it.

Bake for 20 minutes, then baste with the juices. Return to the oven for 10 more minutes and baste again. This builds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.

Step 3 – Optional Broil

Once the chicken hits 165°F internally (usually after 35–45 minutes total), you can broil it for 1–2 minutes. That’s your crispy-skin moment. Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use a meat thermometer. It’s the easiest way to guarantee juicy, safe chicken.

Rubbing the paste into the skin really matters. It helps the seasoning stick and gives more flavor in every bite.

If the seasoning washes off a bit during baking, mix up a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, parsley, and paprika. Sprinkle that blend on during your second basting.

Always use a rimmed pan. The juices from the thighs are gold—but they’ll overflow on a flat sheet.

Serving Suggestions

Starchy Sides

Serve with mashed sweet potatoes, roasted fingerlings, or fluffy white rice. These soak up the pan juices beautifully.

Veggies

Sautéed green beans or zucchini are easy and quick. You could also roast a tray of broccoli while the chicken bakes.

Fresh Salads

A crisp cucumber tomato avocado salad balances the warm spices. Tossed greens with ranch or a cool coleslaw round things out.

More Such Recipes

If you like this one, try our brown sugar garlic chicken for a sweet and savory twist, or make it creamy with our creamy ranch chicken for a rich and flavorful variation. For something leaner, try this baked chicken breast recipe for a leaner oven option. And for crunch lovers, parmesan crusted chicken for a crispy, cheesy alternative is a great option.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe Card

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you oven cook chicken thighs?
At 400°F, chicken thighs usually take 35 to 45 minutes. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is it better to bake chicken thighs at 350 or 400?
400°F gives you crispier skin and faster cooking. 350°F will still cook them through but without the same texture.

How long does it take to cook chicken thighs at 400 degrees?
Typically 35 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs and whether they’re bone-in.

How long do chicken thighs take at 180 degrees?
At 180°C (about 356°F), you’ll need around 40 to 50 minutes. Again, check for 165°F inside.

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