Oven-Baked Herb & Spice Chicken Thighs

A flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make chicken dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The blend of herbs and spices creates a savory crust while the oven does all the work.

📝 Recipe Description:

These oven-baked chicken thighs are marinated in a medley of herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection. They come out with a crispy, golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat inside. The seasoning is a balance of smoky, herby, and slightly spicy flavors, making this dish a hit with both adults and kids.

🍴 Servings:

4 servings (1–2 thighs per person depending on size)

🕒 Prep & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Marinate Time (optional): 30 mins to overnight

• Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour (with marinating)

📋 Ingredients for Oven-Baked Herb & Spice Chicken Thighs

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
   Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.

3. Season the Chicken:
   In a large bowl, mix olive oil with all herbs and spices. Add the chicken thighs and rub the mixture evenly onto all sides.

4. Marinate (Optional):
   For deeper flavor, cover and let marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to overnight.

5. Bake:
   Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared tray. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.

6. Rest and Serve:
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

🧠 Tips & Notes:

• For Extra Crispy Skin: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

• Boneless Option: You can use boneless, skinless thighs. Reduce cooking time to about 25–30 minutes.

• Batch Cooking: This is great for meal prep. Store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Pairing Ideas: Serve with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

🧪 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 290

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 21g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

• Sodium: 420mg

(Values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

💪 Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and growth.

• Low Carb: Great for keto or low-carb diets.

• Rich in Iron & Zinc: Supports immune health.

• Healthy Fats: Especially if using pasture-raised chicken thighs and olive oil.

❓ Q & A:

Q: Can I make this with chicken breasts?

A: Yes, but reduce cooking time to 25–30 minutes and monitor to avoid drying out.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs?

A: Absolutely! Double the quantity if using fresh instead of dried.

Q: Is it spicy?

A: It has mild heat from cayenne. Omit it for a non-spicy version.

Q: Can I air fry this?

A: Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?

A: Yes! Marinate and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead, then bake when ready.