Why Make This Recipe
Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs is a quick and delicious dish for anyone looking for a simple meal. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe uses basic ingredients that you probably already have at home. Plus, baking the chicken ensures it cooks evenly without needing constant attention.
How to Make Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 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 refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to cook evenly.
- Pat the thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the spice rub sticks.
- Season both sides with salt and wait 2 minutes before adding the remaining spices.
- Preheat oven to 400°F with the rack in the center position.
- Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Arrange chicken thighs on the baking sheet with space between each piece and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Bake chicken for 18 minutes, then flip the thighs.
- Continue baking for an additional 14 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 175°F in the thickest part.
- Tent with foil and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
You can serve these chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They also pair well with rice or potatoes. Adding some fresh herbs on top can brighten the dish and add extra flavor.
How to Store Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it properly before eating.
Tips to Make Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry to help the spices stick better.
- Letting the chicken sit at room temperature helps it cook evenly.
- Adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. You can add more garlic or some red pepper flakes for a kick.
Variation
If you want different flavors, you can try adding a mix of herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also use lemon juice or balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in thighs usually take longer to cook.
2. What should the internal temperature be for chicken?
The internal temperature should reach 175°F in the thickest part of the chicken for it to be safe to eat.
3. Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight can add even more flavor. Just make sure to pat it dry before baking.
Easy Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 for brushing the baking sheet, 1 for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove chicken from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to cook evenly.
- Pat the thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the spice rub sticks.
- Season both sides with salt and wait 2 minutes before adding the remaining spices.
Cooking
- Preheat oven to 400°F with the rack in the center position.
- Brush a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Arrange chicken thighs on the baking sheet with space between each piece and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Bake chicken for 18 minutes, then flip the thighs.
- Continue baking for an additional 14 minutes.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 175°F in the thickest part.
- Tent with foil and let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
