– **Title**: 30-Min Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.
3. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade.
4. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the thighs are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
7. Serve warm with your choice of sides such as rice, vegetables, or a salad. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner meat, consider using boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just keep in mind breasts may cook faster, so check them a bit earlier.
Olive Oil: It adds richness and helps the spices stick. If olive oil isn’t available, avocado oil or vegetable oil work well too. They have a high smoke point and won’t alter the taste much.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Great for flavor! Fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onions can be used instead; just adjust the amount as their flavors can be stronger. About 2 garlic cloves and 1 small onion should do.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, or even chili powder for a bit of heat. It’s a perfect way to adjust the flavor to your liking.
Herbs (Oregano & Thyme): Dried herbs are convenient, but fresh herbs can make a fresh impact! If using fresh, double the amount since they’re milder. You can also substitute with Italian seasoning for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Thighs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken thighs in the oven is simple, but you want to make sure they’re juicy and cooked through. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before starting. High heat helps the chicken brown nicely.
- After mixing the marinade, don’t skip tossing the chicken well. This ensures every piece gets coated for even flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer! Insert it into the thickest part; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done. This avoids overcooking.
- Letting the chicken rest after baking is key. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, grab a baking sheet and either line it with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until all the spices are combined into a smooth marinade.
3. Coat the Chicken Thighs:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Using your hands or a spoon, toss the chicken in the marinade until each piece is evenly coated. This will give the chicken lots of flavor!
4. Arrange and Bake:
Place the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching, so they cook evenly. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and a lovely golden brown color.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is done baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your tasty chicken thighs with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Bone-in thighs typically take about 30-35 minutes to reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Just be sure to check them with a meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Some Spices Listed?
No worries! If you’re missing any of the spices, you can substitute or omit them based on your preference. For example, you can swap out smoked paprika for regular paprika, or use Italian seasoning in place of the dried oregano and thyme. The flavor might change slightly, but it will still be tasty!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Olive Oil?
Absolutely! If you need an alternative to olive oil, you can use melted butter or a different type of cooking oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil. Just make sure to maintain the same quantity for the best results.
