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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Close-up of a single, perfectly cooked Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with deeply browned, glistening skin.

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Follow this recipe to make chicken thighs with perfectly crisp skin using only your oven. This method keeps the meat juicy while achieving a crackly exterior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top of the foil.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Rub the olive oil lightly over the skin of the chicken thighs.
  5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the skin, pressing gently so it adheres. Do not season the underside heavily.
  6. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack set over the baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. For extra crisping, switch the oven to the broiler setting for the last 1 to 3 minutes, watching constantly to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Using a wire rack allows air to circulate completely around the chicken, which helps the bottom skin crisp up.
  • Do not skip drying the skin; moisture prevents crisping.
  • Baking powder reacts with the skin’s proteins to draw out moisture and promote browning.

Nutrition