Best Baked Chicken Thighs

These are the Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs! Get crispy and juicy chicken every time – you’ll want to devour them all!

The spice blend I use on these is one of my all-time favourites. Every time I serve these chicken thighs, my friends and family demolish them!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Foolproof method: You’ll get juicy crispy-skinned chicken thighs every time, guaranteed.
• Affordable: Bone-in, skin on chicken is WAY cheaper than boneless and skinless.

Ingredients and substitutions

• Chicken thighs – bone-in, skin-on thighs work best for this recipe, but you can use boneless, skinless thighs if preferred, just adjust the cooking time.
• Lemon juice – freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
• Olive oil – substitute with avocado oil or another neutral oil if needed.
• Garlic powder – swap it for minced fresh garlic for a more robust taste.
• Chili powder – use smoked chili powder for extra depth or leave out if you prefer milder flavors.
• Paprika – regular or smoked paprika will work; smoked adds a nice, smoky flavor to the chicken.
• Thyme – dried thyme works well, but you can use fresh thyme for a brighter flavor.
• Onion powder – swap with finely minced fresh onion if desired.
• Potatoes – you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes or baby potatoes. Sweet potatoes are another option.
• Bagged salad – feel free to mix and match your favorite greens and veggies for a custom salad.

How to make these irresistible chicken thighs

Step 1: Make the spice blend.

Mix together the spice blend ingredients in a small bowl.

Step 2: Season the potatoes.

Add the potatoes to a baking sheet and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and the spice blend.

Step 3: Bake the chicken and potatoes.

Rub the chicken with the spice blend, then bake in the oven until cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy!

You’re all ready to eat!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but just remember to reduce the cooking time since breasts dry out faster. Pull them as soon as they’re cooked through.

How will I know when the chicken is done?

The best way to tell when your baked chicken thighs are done is to use a meat thermometer. They should have an internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I get crispy skin on my chicken?

If you want crispy skin on your baked chicken thighs, throw the chicken skin up under the broiler on high for 1-2 minutes. You will have to pay close attention here and make sure the chicken doesn’t burn. This part is optional but makes the chicken so good!

What to serve with chicken thighs

Make a full meal by serving your baked chicken thighs with one or two sides. I’ve listed 2 sides in the recipe card but here are some more ideas:

• Crispy garlic parm brussels sprouts or shaved brussels sprouts salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Roasted broccoli or broccoli salad
• Mashed potatoes

How to store and reheat

Make ahead: Season the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Store: Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350 F for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

Freeze and reheat from frozen: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Meal prep tools

• Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on storing the leftovers in the fridge.
• I get all my free-range chicken from Butcher Box, conveniently delivered to me frozen.
• Get a meat thermometer to make sure your chicken is cooked through.
• Freeze leftover chicken in reusable freezer bags.