– **Title**: 30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
– **Ingredients**:
– 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added flavor)
– Fresh parsley or herbs for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
3. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the marinade. If desired, drizzle with lemon juice for extra flavor.
4. Arrange the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish, making sure they are in a single layer.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. For a crispy finish, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or herbs if desired, and serve with your choice of sides.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are great for their flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or avocado oil if desired. Both will work well without compromising taste.
Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dried Oregano, Dried Thyme): These spices create a lovely flavor profile. If you’re out of one, feel free to mix and match! For example, use Italian seasoning instead of oregano and thyme, or try smoked paprika for a different twist.
Salt & Pepper: These are kitchen staples. You can adjust salt levels based on your diet needs. For a low-sodium option, try using a salt substitute or just leave it out entirely.
Fresh Parsley: A lovely garnish that adds a pop of color. If you don’t have parsley, you could also use cilantro or chives for a fresh touch.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Thighs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken thighs lies in marinating them well and baking at the right temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure everything is well mixed for even flavor.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if time permits). This helps enhance the flavor!
- When baking, use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety.
Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking keeps it moist by letting the juices redistribute. Happy cooking!
30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the chicken and the marinade, and then around 20-25 minutes of baking time. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and becomes nice and juicy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well to create a flavorful marinade that your chicken will soak up.
3. Coat the Chicken Thighs:
Now it’s time to add your chicken thighs to the bowl. Toss them around gently to make sure each piece is coated evenly with the yummy marinade. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Next, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or give it a light grease. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the sheet. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven! Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and looks golden brown.
6. Let it Rest:
When your chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, making your chicken even more tender and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve and enjoy your tasty oven-baked chicken thighs!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but they may cook faster, so check their internal temperature around 15-20 minutes. You might also want to slightly lower the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter as alternatives. Just keep the measurements the same for the best results!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the baking sheet. Just toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange them around the chicken for a delicious one-pan meal!
