Delicious baked boneless skinless chicken thighs seasoned with garlic, paprika, and Italian herbs. Simple, flavorful, and easy to make!
Ingredients
- 4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons pink salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Start by rinsing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs under cold water. This helps to remove any surface contaminants and ensures the chicken is clean.
- After rinsing, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. It’s essential to get them as dry as possible because this helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
- If there’s any excess fat on the chicken thighs, trim it off with a sharp knife. This step is optional, but it can make for a leaner dish.
- Season the Chicken
- Place the cleaned and trimmed chicken thighs into a large bowl. This will make it easier to mix in the seasonings.
- Add the oil to the bowl. The oil helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and ensures the thighs stay moist during baking.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, pink salt, pepper flakes, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Mix everything together thoroughly to evenly coat each chicken thigh with the oil and seasonings. You can use your hands or a pair of tongs to do this.
- Marinate the Chicken
- For best results, let the chicken thighs marinate. You can let them sit for at least 20 minutes, but for the most flavorful and tender results, marinate them overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Bake the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A higher temperature helps to create a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Line a baking sheet with foil. This makes cleanup easier and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.
- Place each chicken thigh flat on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping, as this ensures even cooking.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken thighs. Thinner thighs will cook faster, while thicker ones will need more time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
- Serve the baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Enjoy your delicious, homemade baked boneless skinless chicken thighs!
Tips and Tricks
- Variation in Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. You can add more garlic or onion powder if you like those flavors, or increase the pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Using a Marinade Bag: If you prefer, you can place the chicken thighs and seasonings in a large resealable plastic bag instead of a bowl. This can make it easier to ensure each piece is well-coated, and it can save space in your refrigerator if you’re marinating overnight.
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Baking boneless, skinless chicken thighs is an easy and delicious way to prepare a meal that’s full of flavor. This recipe is straightforward, using simple ingredients that come together to create a tasty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a family gathering, these baked chicken thighs are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!