Go Back
Close-up of juicy, seasoned Chicken Thighs ready to be served as a delicious main course.

Easy Baked Chicken Thighs

These easy baked chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and flavorful, requiring minimal effort. A simple marinade of garlic, herbs, and paprika infuses the chicken with savory goodness, resulting in a foolproof dinner solution that's perfect every time.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs about 2-2.5 pounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano, thyme, rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Oven
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • small bowl
  • Large bowl
  • whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Meat thermometer
  • paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven rack is in the middle position.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands (or tongs) to make sure each thigh is evenly coated. Get under the skin, too, for extra flavor!
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Make sure the thighs aren't overlapping.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, being careful not to touch the bone. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs very dry before applying the marinade. You can also broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through. For flavor variations, try Lemon Herb, Spicy Southwest, Honey Garlic, or BBQ seasoning.