Easy Baked Chicken Thighs: How Long to Bake at 375

Easy Baked Chicken Thighs - How Long to Bake Chicken Thighs at 375

Be sure to print your free Easy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe Card at the bottom!

Hey there, lovely friend! 💁‍♀️ If you're looking for an easy, mouthwatering recipe that'll have your taste buds dancing, I've got just the thing for you: my go-to Easy Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs! 🍗🍗 As a busy mom always on the lookout for delicious meals that the whole family will adore, I promise this recipe will become one of your favorites in no time. So, let's dive into the juicy details!

Easy Baked Chicken Thighs Ingredients You'll Need

• Bone-in chicken thighs (or boneless if you prefer)
• J.L. Kraft Smoky Mesquite Marinade (you're gonna love this flavor!)
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Onion flakes
• Salt and black pepper (for that perfect seasoning)
• A baking dish or sheet pan (depending on how many you're cooking)
• Cooking spray or parchment paper
• A meat thermometer (trust me, this makes it a breeze)

Easy Step-by-Step Easy Baked Chicken Thighs Instructions

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken First things first, make sure your chicken thighs are at room temperature. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Pat them dry with paper towels to get that skin nice and crispy.

Step 2: Marinating Magic Place the chicken thighs in a ziplock bag and pour in that smoky mesquite marinade. Seal it up and give it a good shake to make sure every nook and cranny gets coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or over night, to let the flavors really sink in. Check out my other blog post for more marinades!

Step 3: Seasoning Sensation In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion flakes, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend is going to take your chicken to a whole new level!

Step 4: Get Ready to Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you want that extra crispy skin, place a wire rack on your baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray. If you're using a baking dish, you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 5: Time to Bake Place the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet or in the dish in a single layer. If you're using bone-in thighs, arrange them with the skin side up. For boneless thighs, either side works!

Step 6: Cooking Perfection Pop your chicken into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Cooking times can vary, but as a general guideline:

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: 25-30 minutes
• Bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: 30-40 minutes

Step 7: The Right Temp

The internal temperature of your chicken thighs is the real secret here. You want to make sure they're cooked through, so insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. The minimum internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy meat.

Step 8: Crispy and Golden If you're all about that crispy skin (who isn't?), you can kick up the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5-10 minutes. This will give you those golden brown, heavenly results!

Step 9: Let's Feast!

Once your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, giving you the most tender and flavorful bites.

Step 10: Serve and EnjoyNow comes the best part – serving up that delicious meal you just whipped up! Pair your succulent chicken thighs with your favorite sides, whether it's a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or some creamy mashed potatoes. You've just created an easy dinner that's sure to become a family favorite!

Tips and Tricks for a Stellar Meal:

• If you're a fan of air fryers, you can totally adapt this recipe. Just follow the same steps, adjusting the cooking time to around 25-35 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for bone-in thighs.
• Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to keep things exciting. Your family's taste buds will thank you!
• For a quick clean-up, line your baking sheet or dish with aluminum foil before placing the chicken. Easy peasy!
• Leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to keep that crispy skin intact.
• If you're using frozen chicken thighs, make sure to thaw them completely before starting. You can use the defrost function on your microwave or let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Yummy Sides

Let's talk about some amazing sides that pair perfectly with your Easy Baked Chicken Thighs! Creating a well-rounded meal is all about balance and variety, so here are a few scrumptious sides that will complement those juicy chicken thighs:

1. Roasted Veggies: There's something magical about the combination of tender chicken and perfectly roasted vegetables. Whether it's carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, and roast them in the oven alongside your chicken. The caramelized flavors will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes:Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic favorite. Whip up a batch of garlicky mashed potatoes to add a comforting touch to your chicken dinner. The velvety texture of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the crispy skin of the chicken thighs.

3. Fresh Salad

A refreshing salad is a great way to balance the richness of the chicken. Choose a mix of vibrant greens, colorful veggies, and your favorite dressing. Consider adding elements like nuts, seeds, or cheese for extra texture and flavor.

4. Rice or Quinoa:Fluffy rice or nutty quinoa are versatile options that soak up the delicious juices from your chicken thighs. Season them with herbs and spices or even a squeeze of lemon to enhance their taste.

5. Grilled Corn on the Cob

If you're looking for a side that screams summer, grilled corn on the cob is a winner. Brush the corn with butter, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and grill it until it's beautifully charred. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory chicken perfectly.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For a touch of sweetness and earthiness, try roasted sweet potatoes. Slice them into wedges, season with your favorite spices, and roast until they're golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

7. Steamed Asparagus: Delicate steamed asparagus is a lovely option that adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and steam them until they're bright green and tender.

8. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls:Who can resist warm, garlicky bread or soft dinner rolls? They're perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce or juices from your chicken thighs.

9. Coleslaw: A light and tangy coleslaw is a great way to add a refreshing crunch to your meal. It provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.

10. Grilled Vegetables: If you're firing up the grill for your chicken thighs, why not throw some veggies on there too? Grilled vegetables like eggplant, squash, and mushrooms are packed with smoky flavors that go hand in hand with your savory chicken.

So there you have it, my lovely friend – an easy recipe for baked chicken thighs that'll have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you're a chicken recipe newbie or a seasoned pro, this foolproof method is the best way to cook up tender, juicy, and oh-so-delicious chicken thighs every single time.

Best Time to Enjoy Easy Baked Chicken Thighs

let's talk about the best occasions to serve up those delicious chicken thighs! These versatile and flavorful cuts of meat can be a hit on various occasions, whether you're hosting a casual get-together or planning a special family dinner. Here are some perfect moments to showcase your Easy Baked Chicken Thighs:

1. Weeknight Family Dinner

Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Their quick cooking time and juicy meat make them a go-to choice for feeding your family after a long day.

2. Outdoor BBQs and Picnics

Whether you're firing up the grill or preparing a picnic spread, chicken thighs are a hit at outdoor gatherings. You can marinate them in your favorite sauces, then grill or bake them to perfection. Their rich flavor pairs wonderfully with the laid-back vibe of BBQs and picnics.

3. Game Day Parties

Hosting a game day party? Chicken thighs can be a game-changer. Serve up crispy baked chicken thighs as finger food with dipping sauces, or prepare a big batch of chicken sliders for everyone to enjoy during the game.

4. Casual Potlucks

When you're asked to bring a dish to a potluck, chicken thighs can be your secret weapon. They're easy to make in large quantities, and you can choose a marinade or seasoning that fits the theme of the potluck. From smoky flavors to zesty herbs, there's a chicken thigh recipe for every occasion.

5. Celebrations & Gatherings

If you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, chicken thighs can be a delightful addition to the menu. Their juicy meat and crispy skin can make your gathering feel extra special without requiring a ton of effort.

6. Date Night Dinners

Want to impress your special someone with a home-cooked meal? Chicken thighs can be your secret weapon. Prepare a romantic dinner with beautifully baked chicken thighs, a side of creamy mashed potatoes, and a bottle of wine for a cozy date night at home.

7. Comfort Food Nights

When you're craving comfort food, chicken thighs can be just the ticket. They can be part of a soul-warming meal alongside your favorite sides like mac and cheese, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of creamy soup.

8. Family Reunions: Family reunions are all about enjoying good food and great company. Chicken thighs can be a crowd-pleaser that caters to different tastes. Whether you're grilling them at a backyard reunion or baking them for a indoor gathering, they're sure to be a hit.

9. Kids' Birthday Parties: Planning a kids' birthday party? Chicken thighs are a kid-friendly option that can be transformed into mini sliders or bite-sized pieces for little hands. Serve them with some colorful veggies and dips for a well-rounded kids' meal.

10. Casual Dinner with Friends: Whether you're hosting a small dinner party or a casual catch-up with friends, chicken thighs offer a hearty and delicious main course. They're versatile enough to pair with various sides and accommodate different dietary preferences.

Enjoy!

Dixie

Easy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe Card