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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 66 reviews
  • Author: Bara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with perfectly crispy skin. Using simple seasonings and a high-temperature bake, the chicken cooks evenly on a rack, ensuring the skin crisps beautifully while the inside stays moist. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, this recipe serves 6 and comes together in just over half an hour.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 ½ pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Additional

  • 2 large egg whites, beaten


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F and position a rack in the center. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil, then place a metal cooling rack inside the sheet pan to allow air circulation under the chicken for even cooking and crispiness.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season them thoroughly with kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and paprika. Arrange them skin side up on the prepared rack for optimal crisping.
  3. Brush with egg whites: Lightly brush the beaten egg whites all over the chicken skins. This helps the skin to develop a beautiful crispy texture and enhances browning during baking.
  4. Bake the chicken: Lower the oven temperature to 425°F. Place the baking sheet with the chicken in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with an instant-read thermometer and the skin turns crispy and golden.
  5. Serve warm: Remove the chicken from the oven and transfer the thighs to a serving platter. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture and juicy interior at their best.

Notes

  • Using a metal cooling rack elevates the chicken to allow air circulation, which is key to achieving crispy skin.
  • Applying beaten egg whites helps enhance skin crispiness but can be omitted if allergic to eggs.
  • Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture better and yield crispier skin compared to boneless or skinless options.
  • Adjust seasonings to your taste; adding garlic powder or smoked paprika can add extra flavor dimension.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking for juices to redistribute, ensuring juicier meat.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely without overcooking.