Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
These Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for any meal. They are not only easy to prepare but also turn out incredibly juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for a healthy family dinner. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply feeding your loved ones, this dish fits the bill. Plus, they are keto and low-carb friendly, which makes them suitable for various diets!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip these thighs up on a busy weeknight.
- Flavorful Seasoning: The combination of garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs creates a delightful taste that will impress everyone.
- Versatile Meal Option: These chicken thighs can be served with various sides, from roasted vegetables to rice or salad.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this recipe supports a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves juicy chicken thighs! This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Tools and Preparation
Using the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for these Oven Baked Chicken Thighs.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken and helps in heat distribution.
- Aluminum foil: Makes clean-up easy by preventing food from sticking to the pan.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the olive oil and seasonings uniformly before applying them to the chicken.
Ingredients
These Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are easy to make and come out so juicy and flavorful! Great for a healthy family dinner, and keto/low carb friendly, too.
Ingredients:
– 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
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 pounds chicken thighs (6-8 pieces, patted dry)
– 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet or large rimmed pan with foil. Place it in the oven as it heats up; this ensures the pan is hot when you add the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until you form a paste.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs into the bowl with the seasoning mixture. If your bowl is small, work in batches. Toss to coat each thigh well. Remove each thigh individually from the bowl while rubbing the seasoning into their skin.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs on your heated baking pan. Dot them with diced butter. Bake in your hot oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the pan and baste the chicken using juices that have collected at the bottom. Return to bake for another 10 minutes, then baste again. Finally, continue baking for an additional 5–15 minutes until each thigh reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Enjoy these delicious Oven Baked Chicken Thighs as part of your next meal!
How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Serving Oven Baked Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal experience. These juicy and flavorful thighs pair well with various sides, making them perfect for any occasion.
With Fresh Salad
- A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the chicken. Consider a simple mixed greens salad topped with a vinaigrette.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. This adds heartiness and helps soak up the delicious juices.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make a colorful and nutritious side that complements the flavors of the chicken.
In Tacos
- Shred leftover chicken thighs and use them as filling for tacos. Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fresh twist.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that provides comfort alongside the seasoned chicken.
As Part of a Sandwich
- Slice the chicken and serve it on a crusty roll with lettuce and tomato for an easy yet satisfying sandwich option.
How to Perfect Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
To achieve perfectly cooked Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, consider these helpful tips:
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Choose skin-on thighs: Skin-on thighs help retain moisture while adding flavor through crispy skin.
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Pat dry before seasoning: Drying the chicken ensures better adherence of the seasoning and promotes crispy skin.
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Preheat your pan: Using a hot pan when placing the thighs creates that delicious sear right away.
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Baste during cooking: Basting with pan juices enhances flavor and keeps the meat juicy throughout baking.
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Check internal temperature: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
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Let rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep juices from spilling out when cut.
Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Pairing side dishes with Oven Baked Chicken Thighs can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
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Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds freshness and vibrant color to your plate.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for pairing with savory chicken.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and a tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with rich chicken.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and is always a hit at family dinners.
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Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a healthy twist while being low in carbs.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer sweetness that complements savory baked chicken thighs.
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Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad packed with herbs can be a great way to add flavor diversity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat the thighs well with the seasoning paste for maximum taste.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 400°F before placing the chicken inside.
- Using wet chicken: Adding chicken that hasn’t been patted dry can lead to excess moisture and soggy skin. Make sure to dry each piece thoroughly before seasoning.
- Ignoring cooking temperature: Relying solely on cooking time without checking internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Basting too infrequently: Skipping basting during baking can make the chicken dry. Baste every 10-15 minutes for juicy, flavorful meat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Wrap each thigh individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover. Cook for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Oven Baked Chicken Thighs:
Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless thighs; however, they may not be as juicy as those with skin due to less fat.
How long do I bake Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
Bake them for about 35–45 minutes total, depending on their size and thickness.
What should I serve with Oven Baked Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs pair well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Can I marinate chicken thighs before baking?
Absolutely! Marinating adds extra flavor; just be sure not to use too much acid which can break down the meat.
Final Thoughts
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are not only easy to prepare but also deliver incredible flavor and juiciness that your family will love. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or marinades. Enjoy these delicious thighs any night of the week!
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs are a mouthwatering dish that will become a family favorite in no time. These juicy, flavorful thighs are easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Coated with aromatic seasonings like garlic powder and paprika, they deliver a delightful taste while being keto and low-carb friendly. Serve them alongside fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. This recipe not only guarantees tender chicken but also offers versatility in serving options, making it an ideal choice for busy families looking for healthy yet satisfying meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (6–8 pieces)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (diced)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to create a paste.
- Coat each chicken thigh generously with the seasoning mixture.
- Place the thighs on the baking sheet and dot with diced butter.
- Bake for 20 minutes, baste with pan juices, then bake for an additional 15–25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
