These oven-baked chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a tasty dinner that everyone will love. Simple seasoning makes these thighs shine!
I appreciate how easy they are to prepare. Just pop them in the oven and relax while they cook. Perfect for when you want a homemade meal without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are great for their moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just note that they might need a little less cooking time.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for marinating and roasting. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil is a great alternative and has a higher smoke point.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper (for a kick) can work well. Just use less of cayenne as it’s spicier.
Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder, Dried Oregano): Feel free to adjust these spices based on your taste. You can add cumin or Italian herbs if you want a different flavor profile.
Fresh Parsley: This garnish adds freshness. You can substitute it with cilantro or green onions if you prefer a different herb.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Thighs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting juicy chicken thighs can be tricky, but there’s a simple way to make sure they cook perfectly. The key is to marinate them well and watch the cooking time closely.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and make sure it’s fully hot before adding the chicken. This helps to seal in the juices.
- Check the chicken thighs at 25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- If broiling, keep an eye on the chicken. It only takes a couple of minutes to get crispy; you don’t want it to burn!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.
30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 25-30 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes. You’ll have flavorful and juicy chicken thighs ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will get it nice and hot for baking the chicken thighs!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth marinade.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the delicious mix. This step adds lots of flavor!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the sheet, making sure they are spread out nicely so they cook evenly.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Add a Crispy Touch (Optional):
If you like a crispy outer layer, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy when you cut into it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the chicken with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it up and enjoy your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but you’ll need to thaw them first. The best way to thaw is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Once thawed, pat them dry and proceed with the marinating step.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika and a pinch of cumin for added flavor. Alternatively, using a bit of chipotle powder can also bring a smoky heat to the dish!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps to keep the chicken juicy!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the baking sheet alongside the chicken. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Toss them with a bit of olive oil and seasoning before baking for a delicious one-pan meal!
