Crispy Baked Bone-In Thighs (Print Version)

Golden, crackling skin and juicy, succulent meat in every bite. A smoky spice blend creates ultimate crispiness with simple techniques.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 3-3.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)

→ Seasoning Blend

02 - 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
03 - 2 tsp kosher salt (or 1 tsp fine sea salt)
04 - 1½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1½ tsp garlic powder
06 - 1 tsp onion powder
07 - 1½ tsp smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
08 - 1½ tsp dried thyme
09 - 1½ tsp dried oregano
10 - ½ tsp dried rosemary, crumbled
11 - ½ tsp aluminum-free baking powder

→ Optional Serving

12 - 1 lemon, cut into wedges
13 - Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Remove chicken thighs from the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before cooking to bring them closer to room temperature for even cooking.
02 - Pat each thigh very dry on all sides with paper towels—excess moisture prevents the skin from becoming crispy.
03 - Preheat the oven to 425°F and position a rack in the upper third of the oven.
04 - Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top if available. If not, place thighs directly on the foil-lined pan.
05 - In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly.
06 - Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or on a tray. Drizzle with olive oil and rub to coat evenly on all sides.
07 - Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, concentrating on the skin side. Rub seasoning into the skin and underneath if possible.
08 - Arrange thighs skin-side up on the rack or baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow air circulation for crisping.
09 - Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the skin is deep golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 175-190°F in the thickest part.
10 - For extra-crispy skin, broil on high for 1-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
11 - Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes on the pan to allow juices to redistribute.
12 - Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Golden, crackling skin and succulent dark meat.
  • Simple American weeknight dinner technique.
  • Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
02 -
  • For even crispier skin, salt the thighs and refrigerate uncovered on a rack for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Aluminum-free baking powder is the secret ingredient that helps the skin break down and crisp up perfectly.
  • Letting the meat rest for 5-10 minutes is crucial for keeping the juices inside the chicken.
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