Quick & Simple Baked Chicken Thighs

Baked Chicken Thighs is a popular and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as part of various meals, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant week-end feast. The simplicity and ease of preparation make these thighs a favorite among home cooks looking to create delicious and comforting food without spending too much time in the kitchen.

These chicken thighs are perfect for anyone who enjoys a healthy balance between flavor-packed meals that don't take long to prepare. They're especially handy if you have some leftover chicken from previous meals as they can be used quickly, making this recipe incredibly convenient and cost-effective.

Ingredients

• 5-6 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on or skin-off)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your chicken thighs. If you're using skin-on thighs, remove any excess fat from around the edges and pat them dry with paper towels.

Next, in a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade for your chicken. Rub this mixture generously over each side of the chicken thighs so that they are evenly coated. If you prefer, you can also place them in a resealable bag with the marinade and let them sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature.

Once your oven is preheated, carefully place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Make sure there's enough space between each thigh to allow for even heat distribution during cooking.

Bake in the center of the oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a crisper skin, you can rotate and briefly grill the chicken under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes towards the end of the cooking time.

Once cooked through, remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices if desired to enhance flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe takes approximately 30-40 minutes from start to finish, including preparation time and cooking time in the oven. It yields about 4 servings, making it suitable for lunch, dinner, or even as part of a meal prep plan.

Tips & Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices based on what you like best! Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary along with the paprika and garlic powder. You could also include some diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms in your mix for a more substantial meal.

1. If you prefer a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper to the marinade.
2. For extra moisture, try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup when rubbing the seasoning over the chicken.

Baked Chicken Thighs make for an excellent choice for busy nights when you want something quick yet tasty. Whether served on its own as a main dish or paired with other ingredients to form a complete meal, this recipe provides both simplicity and satisfaction without requiring too much effort in the kitchen.

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p>Enjoy your flavorful and simple Baked Chicken Thighs, knowing that they offer great taste along with being relatively easy to prepare. Perfect for those days when you just want something delicious yet straightforward!