Why Make This Recipe
Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to prepare a simple and delicious meal. This recipe boasts tender, juicy chicken that cooks evenly in the oven, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With only a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish can be on your table in no time. It’s versatile, too! You can pair it with various sides to create a complete meal.
How to Make Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Directions:
- Remove chicken from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt. Wait 2 minutes, then add the remaining spices.
- Preheat oven to 400°F with the rack in the center position.
- Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of oil. Arrange the thighs with space between each piece. Drizzle with the remaining oil.
- Bake for 18 minutes. Flip the thighs. Bake an additional 14 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 175°F at the thickest part.
- Tent with foil and let it rest for 3 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
This dish is extremely versatile. You can serve the chicken thighs with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Adding your favorite vegetables, either steamed or roasted, can also enhance the meal. You may even shred the chicken and use it in tacos or sandwiches for a delicious variation!
How to Store Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. Ensure you label it with the date, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy texture.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking. It allows the juices to redistribute and makes for a juicier bite.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect flavor combination.
Variation
For a little heat, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix. You can also marinate the chicken for a few hours in your favorite marinade before baking for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may require a different cooking time as they can dry out faster. Monitor the internal temperature closely.
2. What should I do if my chicken is not browning?
If the chicken isn’t browning, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking or make sure you have enough oil and high heat.
3. Can I cook this recipe on a grill?
Yes! You can grill boneless skinless chicken thighs. Just follow the same seasoning and grill over medium-high heat until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon for brushing the baking sheet, 1 tablespoon for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Method
Preparation
- Remove chicken from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt. Wait 2 minutes, then add the remaining spices.
Cooking
- Preheat oven to 400°F with the rack in the center position.
- Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of oil. Arrange the thighs with space between each piece. Drizzle with the remaining oil.
- Bake for 18 minutes. Flip the thighs. Bake an additional 14 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature and ensure it reaches 175°F at the thickest part.
- Tent with foil and let it rest for 3 minutes before serving.