Hey y'all! If you're searching for a foolproof way to make juicy, flavorful Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in the oven, you've come to the right place. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any gathering where you need a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. The savory spices, tender chicken, and easy prep make it a go-to favorite. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven Recipe
- Delivers juicy, tender chicken every time with minimal effort.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick meal.
- Uses pantry-friendly ingredients for a budget-friendly dish.
- Versatile flavor profile pairs well with a variety of sides.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients for Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven: Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs
In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well coated. Make sure each piece is evenly seasoned for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, smooth side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. For a deliciously crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices and ensures a tender, flavorful bite every time.
Notes for Perfect Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning for extra crispiness.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet—give each thigh space to roast evenly.
- For more info on safe chicken cooking temperatures, check out FoodSafety.gov.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven: Variations
- Honey Garlic: Drizzle with 1 tablespoon honey and 2 minced garlic cloves before baking for a sweet and savory twist.
- Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of one lemon plus 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for a zesty flavor boost.
- Spicy Cajun: Swap paprika for Cajun seasoning and add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
Required Equipment for Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or nonstick spray
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Instant-read thermometer
Storage Instructions for Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through for best texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- Pair with fluffy steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Slice and serve over a crisp green salad for a healthy lunch.
- Enjoy in wraps or sandwiches with your favorite sauces and toppings.
Pro Tips for the Best Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- Always check for doneness with a thermometer—165°F (74°C) is key for juicy thighs (Serious Eats guide).
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Double the batch for meal prep—these thighs reheat beautifully!
Frequently Asked Questions about Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Oven
- Can I use bone-in chicken thighs with this recipe?
- Yes, but increase the baking time to 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Should I marinate the chicken beforehand?
- It's not required thanks to the flavorful spice rub, but you can marinate for up to 2 hours for extra tenderness.
- How do I keep the chicken thighs from drying out in the oven?
- Don't overbake, and make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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2Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
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3Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs. Add garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Toss to coat evenly.
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4Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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5Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
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6Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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