Ranch Chicken Thighs are juicy and full of flavor with a tasty ranch seasoning. They’re seriously easy to make, which means more time for fun and less time in the kitchen!
These thighs are wonderful served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. I love how they come out tender every time—perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love bone-in, skin-on thighs for their juicy flavor and crispy skin. If you’re looking for a healthier option, boneless, skinless thighs work too, but they might lack some juiciness.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This mix gives the chicken great flavor. You can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives. If you’re avoiding ranch, try an Italian seasoning blend instead!
Garlic Powder: While garlic powder is convenient, fresh minced garlic is a tasty alternative. Just adjust the amount to your taste, as fresh garlic can be stronger.
Paprika: Regular paprika adds color, but smoked paprika brings a deeper flavor. If you don’t have paprika, cumin or chili powder can add their unique twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Has Crispy Skin?
A crispy skin makes your chicken irresistible, and there’s a trick to achieving this. First, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps them sear better.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) before you begin.
- When you sear the thighs, ensure the oil is hot before adding the chicken. This gives you that crispy skin!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your skillet isn’t big enough, do it in batches.
After the skin is golden brown, flipping them and baking is key to finishing the cooking while keeping the exterior crispy. Enjoy your dish!
How to Make Ranch Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ranch Chicken Thighs recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dish for any night of the week. In no time, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that the skin will get perfectly crispy when cooked.
3. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix them together well!
4. Season the Chicken:
Rub the spice mixture all over both sides of each chicken thigh, making sure to coat them evenly. This will give the chicken a fantastic flavor.
5. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
6. Sear the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot oil. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Once the thighs are nicely browned, flip them over, and then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safely cooked.
8. Let It Rest and Garnish:
After baking, take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a nice pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful Ranch Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook a bit faster, so reduce the baking time to about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out!
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Or you can use any other seasoning blend you enjoy, like Italian herbs or taco seasoning for a different flavor profile!
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 microwave or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe on the Grill?
Yes, grilling works great too! Preheat your grill on medium-high heat, then cook the seasoned thighs for about 7-10 minutes per side or until they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will give them a nice smoky flavor!
