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baked chicken thighs

Baked Chicken Thighs are super easy, deliciously seasoned with a crisp skin and juicy interior, for perfect results every time!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 thighs bone-in skin-on chicken large, about 3.5 - 4 lbs
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest from 1 large lemon
  • 5 cloves garlic minced, or 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning store-bought or homemade
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Position oven rack one level above center. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  2. Line a rimmed 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil and top with an oven-safe wire cooling rack. Spray the cooling rack with non-stick cooking spray.
  3. In an extra-large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  4. Dab chicken thighs well dry with paper towels and add them to the bowl with the oil mixture. Toss well to evenly coat with the mixture.
  5. Transfer thighs to the rack on the baking sheet, turning skin side down. Season with salt and pepper, then turn skin side up and season again with salt and pepper. Leave space between thighs so heat can circulate evenly.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven until the skin is browned and thighs register 175 degrees Fahrenheit (80 degrees Celsius) in their thickest portion, about 35 - 45 minutes.
  7. Serve warm with lemon wedges for spritzing.

Notes

If desired, broil during the last minute or two for crispier skin (keep a close eye on it to prevent burning). You can garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley for extra freshness.