These oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and super quick to make! In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a tasty meal without fuss.
I love how easy they are to prepare—just season, pop them in the oven, and relax. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious dish without the hassle!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, perfect for quick baking. If you don’t have thighs, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may dry out quicker.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the spices stick. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder bring warmth and depth. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works too. For something milder, skip the cayenne.
Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices. If you’re looking to cut out sugar, honey or maple syrup are good alternatives, but use a smaller amount as they are sweeter.
Fresh Parsley: Not just for garnish, it brightens the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried herbs like thyme or even green onions can add a fresh touch.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy While Baking?
Keeping chicken moist while baking is crucial for a tasty dish. Here are some tips to help you:
- Stick to the recommended temperature of 425°F (220°C). This helps develop a nice crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the seasoning paste, as the oil and spices help keep moisture inside.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Give the chicken space, which allows it to bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Remove the chicken when it reaches 165°F (75°C) to prevent overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps retain juices, making every bite flavorful!
How to Make 30-Min Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy option for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the chicken will bake quickly and get that nice golden-brown color.
2. Make the Seasoning Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re looking for a bit of heat). If you like some sweetness, add the brown sugar too. Mix everything together well until it forms a seasoning paste.
3. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with your seasoning mixture. Toss the chicken to coat them evenly, making sure every piece is covered in that yummy seasoning.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up or give it a light grease to prevent sticking. This will help your chicken bake evenly and come off the sheet easily.
5. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on your prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them; this way, they’ll cook evenly and get crispy edges!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and golden brown. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. If you’d like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your tasty baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides, and enjoy your delicious meal! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but adjust the cooking time! Bone-in thighs typically take longer to cook, around 35-45 minutes, depending on the size. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use canola oil, avocado oil, or melted butter. Each will add a slightly different flavor but will work well for roasting the chicken.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Sheet?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the baking sheet. Just make sure to cut them into even pieces for consistent cooking, and keep an eye on the chicken’s cooking time as the veggies may need less time to roast.
