Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs
Crispy, spice-rubbed baked chicken thighs deliver all the crackly skin and juicy meat you crave—without frying. A simple seasoning blend of onion, garlic, brown sugar, and paprika gives each bite a sweet-smoky kick, while high-heat roasting locks in flavor and moisture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal-prep protein.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs about 6–8 pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and top with a wire rack.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Place chicken in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss with seasoning blend.
- Arrange chicken skin-side up on the rack.
- Bake 35–45 minutes until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/crispy-baked-chicken-thighs/
Notes
- Herb Variation: Add 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary to the spice rub for an herby twist.
- Sweet & Spicy: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup drizzle after roasting and increase cayenne by ⅛ tsp for extra heat.
- Skinless Option: Use boneless, skinless thighs; roast at 400 °F (205 °C) for 25–30 minutes, turning once.