Baked boneless chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor. They are quick to make and turn out perfectly tender every time. Plus, they only require a few easy ingredients!
Honestly, there’s nothing like the smell of chicken baking in the oven! I love serving these with veggies for a wholesome meal. Who doesn’t adore a tasty dish that’s also simple to whip up? 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for baking. If you don’t have thighs, drumsticks or chicken breasts can work too, but adjust the cooking time as breasts can dry out faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness. If you’re out of olive oil, you can substitute it with canola oil, avocado oil, or melted butter for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasonings bring depth to the dish. You can use fresh garlic or shallots instead — just increase the amount slightly, as they tend to have a stronger flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work in a pinch, although it won’t have that smoky essence.
Dried Thyme: This herb is fantastic in this recipe. If you prefer fresh thyme, use three times the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping your chicken juicy is all about proper cooking time and technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken thighs well. This infuses flavor and helps keep them moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this ensures you don’t overcook the chicken. 165°F (75°C) is the sweet spot.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute. This step is key for juicy meat!
How to Make Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have delicious baked boneless chicken thighs ready in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This mix will bring out the flavors in the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the boneless chicken thighs and place them in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss it well to make sure each piece is fully coated. The more you toss, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleaning up easier. Then, arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and looks beautifully cooked.
6. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making each bite tender and juicy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the chicken for a nice touch. Now, enjoy your tasty baked boneless chicken thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts in place of thighs. Just remember that chicken breasts may cook a little quicker, so start checking for doneness at around 20-25 minutes to avoid drying them out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken thighs overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to cover the bowl tightly or use a sealed plastic bag to prevent any spills.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze the Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
