Baked Chicken Thighs: Crispy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat ensures a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during baking.
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Season the Chicken Thighs:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, massaging it into the skin and meat.

Bake the Chicken Thighs:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin-side up. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 180-190°F (82-88°C) for maximum tenderness.

Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken thighs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat.
Serve the baked chicken thighs with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick, or pair them with your favorite side dishes.

Serving and Storage Tips