Crispy Roasted Chicken Thighs

These crispy roasted chicken thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty family meal. With just a few pantry staples, this recipe delivers perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with irresistibly crispy skin every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

• Uses bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor

• Perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices

• Great for meal prep or family dinners

• Oven-roasted for a crispy exterior and juicy interior

• Can be customized with different seasoning blends

• Budget-friendly and filling

• Requires only a few kitchen tools

• Low-carb and high-protein

• Pairs well with many sides like potatoes, salads, or veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet with a cooling rack or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with all the seasonings until well combined.

3. Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Brush the seasoning mixture generously on both sides, making sure to get some under the skin for extra flavor.

4. Arrange the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up.

5. Roast in the oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. For extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 2–4 minutes of baking.

7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.

• Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh rosemary for a Mediterranean twist.

• Smoky BBQ: Use smoked paprika and a pinch of brown sugar.

• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and a drizzle of sesame oil.

• Boneless Option: Use boneless skinless thighs, but reduce cook time by 10–15 minutes.

• Breast Substitute: Use chicken breasts, adjusting the cook time and monitoring internal temp closely.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheat (Oven): Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

• Reheat (Air Fryer): Air fry at 375°F for 4–5 minutes for crispy skin.

• Reheat (Microwave): Use in 30-second bursts, though skin may lose crispiness.

FAQs

What temperature should chicken thighs be cooked to?

Chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re safe to eat and juicy.

How do I get the skin extra crispy?

Pat the chicken dry, bake skin-side up, and finish under the broiler for a few minutes.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work great but will cook faster. Check them around the 25-minute mark.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, season and store the chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

What sides go well with roasted chicken thighs?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad pair well with this dish.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, this method works for drumsticks or breasts, though cooking times will vary.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Avoid overcooking and allow it to rest after baking to retain juices.

Do I need a rack on the baking sheet?

A rack helps air circulate for crispier skin, but it’s optional. You can also use a foil-lined sheet pan.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

You can make your own using a mix of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram.

Conclusion

Crispy roasted chicken thighs are a delicious and dependable recipe that never fails to impress. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this versatile dish is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.