These oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs are quick, tasty, and super easy to make! With a crispy outside and juicy inside, they’ll be your new weeknight favorite.
I love how just 30 minutes can turn simple chicken into a flavorful dish. Pair it with veggies or rice, and you have a meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These thighs are juicy and flavorful! If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This oil adds rich flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter for a different taste, but olive oil is a healthier choice.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: They give a lovely depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh, you could use minced garlic and chopped onions, but be careful not to burn them during cooking.
Paprika: Regular paprika adds sweetness, while smoked paprika gives a nice smoky touch. If you run out of paprika, cayenne pepper can work for heat, but use it sparingly!
Brown Sugar: This balances the flavors nicely. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using a sugar substitute or maple syrup, though the taste may vary slightly.
Honey (optional): If you want more sweetness, honey can enhance the glaze. You can skip it or use agave syrup for a different flavor without changing much.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Thighs Are Tender and Juicy?
The key to tender and juicy chicken is marinating well and cooking to the right temperature. First, make sure to coat the chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade. Letting them sit for just 10 minutes helps the flavors absorb.
- Preheat your oven properly to 425°F; this high temperature locks in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy!
- If you want extra crispiness, broil for a few minutes at the end, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture.
30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and marinating, and then 20-25 minutes for baking. Altogether, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes making these tasty chicken thighs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the chicken thighs cook quickly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), oregano, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and honey. Stir everything together well so it forms a nice marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and mix them around until they are fully coated in the marinade. Let the chicken sit and marinate for about 10 minutes to soak up those delicious flavors.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
While the chicken is marinating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make clean-up easier and help prevent sticking.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place the sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you like your chicken extra crispy, turn the broiler on for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs! Just note that chicken breasts may cook faster due to being leaner, so check their internal temperature around 15-20 minutes to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, granulated sugar works as a good substitute. For a more natural sweetness, you can also use maple syrup or coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave, but oven reheating helps maintain crispiness!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Sheet?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can be added to the baking sheet alongside the chicken. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season them with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
