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A plate of delicious and easy weeknight chicken thighs, ready to serve.

Classic Easy Weeknight Chicken Thigh Recipe

This classic easy weeknight chicken thigh recipe delivers juicy chicken with crispy skin, seasoned perfectly for a flavorful meal. It's simple to prepare and ideal for a quick and satisfying dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Small bowl
  • Instant-read thermometer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2-2.5 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 lemon Optional: for squeezing
  • Fresh parsley Optional: chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Seasoning & Baking

  • In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a paste.
  • Rub the seasoning mixture evenly all over both sides of the chicken thighs.
  • Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  • Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness, if desired.

Serving

  • Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if using. Serve hot.

Notes

For even crispier skin, ensure chicken is thoroughly dry before seasoning. Adjust spice levels to your preference, and consider adding a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick. Serve with your favorite roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for a complete meal.