These oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs are super easy to make and full of flavor! They cook in just 30 minutes and are perfect for a quick dinner.
Seriously, it’s like getting dinner done in a flash! I love tossing them in my favorite spices—so tasty and no fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights, right?
Plus, they stay juicy and delightful every time! I love serving them with some veggies or rice for a complete meal that makes my family happy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for baking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just note that they might cook faster!
Olive Oil: Great for adding richness, but you can replace it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if that’s what you have. Both options work well under high heat.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper are key for flavor. If you want to mix it up, use fresh garlic and onions instead, or toss in some Italian seasoning for a different taste!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat, but feel free to skip it if you’re not a fan of spice. You could also swap it for a pinch of chili powder for a milder kick.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Use either for sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try agave syrup or skip the sweetener entirely and add a splash of apple cider vinegar for flavor.
Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce: Both add a savory depth. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy and Flavorful?
The secret to crispy chicken thighs lies in the seasoning and cooking technique. First, ensure you coat the thighs evenly with the seasoning mix. This not only enhances the flavor but helps create that tasty crispy exterior.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for crispiness!
- Use a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and to help prevent sticking.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer so it cooks evenly. Crowding the pan can lead to steam, which makes them less crispy.
- After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to keep it juicy.
For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, just watch it closely to avoid burning! Enjoy your meal!
30-Min Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
For Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (for umami)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, and then 25-30 minutes to bake, making it perfect for a quick dinner. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help our chicken get that nice crispy exterior we all love.
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a big mixing bowl, pour in the olive oil and add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper for a little heat. Mix it well to combine all those yummy flavors.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them around until they’re completely coated in the seasoning mixture. Make sure every piece gets that tasty flavor!
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a quick spray with cooking oil to keep the chicken from sticking. Lay the seasoned chicken thighs on the sheet in a single layer for even cooking.
5. Add the Sweet and Savory Touch:
Drizzle the honey or maple syrup over the chicken, followed by the soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce). This will add a lovely sweetness and depth to our dish.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Let the chicken bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
7. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps the chicken nice and moist.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color. Now it’s time to serve your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs hot. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs! Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster, so check for doneness around 20-25 minutes and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing any spices, you can use a pre-made poultry seasoning as a substitute. Alternatively, feel free to use any spices you have on hand that you enjoy, like Italian seasoning or even a bit of curry powder for a different taste.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave them, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the seasoning mixture overnight will deepen the flavors. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking for even cooking.
