how to bake chicken thighs

To bake chicken thighs, follow these general steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400-425°F (around 200-220°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them well with salt, pepper, and optionally a mix of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub the seasoning evenly over all sides, including under the skin if possible.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin side up on a baking dish or a rack on a baking sheet.
5. Bake uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C), though cooking to around 170-180°F (77-82°C) can yield juicier and crispier thighs.
6. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to crisp up the skin even more.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is recommended for maximum flavor and crispy skin, but boneless skinless thighs can be baked similarly with a shorter cooking time of about 25-30 minutes. A flavorful glaze or sauce (e.g., honey mustard or a mustard-honey-garlic mix) can also be added before baking for added taste. This method provides crispy, juicy, and flavorful baked chicken thighs suitable for an easy, satisfying meal.