Southern Baked Chicken Thighs
A cozy and comforting dish featuring deliciously seasoned chicken thighs baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4–6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs For optimum flavor
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Or melted butter for an indulgent twist
- 1 teaspoon paprika Sweet or smoked, depending on your preference
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds a rich depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder For a subtle sweetness
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme Or rosemary for a fresher touch
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning
- optional garnish Fresh parsley Adds a lovely pop of color
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy skin.
- Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely.
Seasoning
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring even coverage.
Baking
- Place the seasoned thighs skin-side up on a rimmed baking sheet, spaced out for even cooking.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
Serving
- Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix. You can also swap thyme for fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor. Squeeze citrus over the chicken before serving to brighten up the flavors.