12 Baked Chicken Thigh Recipes That Are Juicy, Crispy, And Easy

12 Baked Chicken Thigh Recipes That Are Juicy, Crispy, And Easy bring the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction straight to your kitchen. Chicken thighs are beloved for their rich taste, tender texture, and budget-friendly appeal—and when baked just right, they deliver a crispy skin and juicy interior that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping a weekend feast, these recipes promise to elevate your mealtime without the hassle. Packed with bold seasonings, aromatic herbs, and smart cooking techniques, this list has something for every kind of home cook.

Baked Chicken Thigh Recipes

From classic garlic butter and honey mustard glazes to global-inspired flavors like tandoori spice rubs and Mediterranean marinades, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to keep dinner exciting. Each recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal prep, and is designed to bring out the natural richness of chicken thighs while keeping the results consistently delicious. So whether you’re after crispy skin straight from the oven or tender meat that falls off the bone, these 12 dishes are sure to become go-to favorites in your recipe collection.

Oven-Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Oven-baked teriyaki chicken thighs served with rice and vegetables.

Oven-baked teriyaki chicken thighs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. The tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables.

The recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time. With its mouth-watering glaze and succulent texture, this teriyaki chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger together.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the chicken.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy with rice and steamed vegetables!

Garlic Herb Butter Baked Chicken Thighs

Juicy and crispy garlic herb butter baked chicken thighs garnished with fresh herbs

Garlic Herb Butter Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious way to enjoy tender chicken with a crispy exterior. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy meat. This recipe is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to whip up a fantastic meal any day of the week.

With minimal prep and a short baking time, you’ll have a satisfying dish that impresses family and friends alike. Serve these thighs alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up. Pour the garlic herb butter mixture over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
  4. Arrange lemon slices around the chicken for added flavor.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your deliciously baked chicken thighs!

Lemon Pepper Crispy Thighs

Lemon Pepper Crispy Chicken Thighs with slices of lemon

Lemon Pepper Crispy Thighs are a delightful combination of zesty and savory flavors. The juicy chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection with a blend of lemon zest and cracked pepper, creating a crispy skin that locks in all the moisture. This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious dinner that will impress your family or guests. The bright citrus notes paired with the earthy pepper add a refreshing twist to the classic roasted chicken. Get ready to savor each bite!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh thyme (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken, ensuring the skin is well-coated.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet and arrange lemon slices around them.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  6. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.

Spicy Cajun Baked Chicken Thighs

Spicy Cajun Baked Chicken Thighs with herbs

Spicy Cajun Baked Chicken Thighs are a scrumptious dish, perfect for those who love a little heat. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a flavorful blend of Cajun spices that deliver a delightful kick. The crispy skin adds a satisfying crunch, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Making this dish is straightforward and requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how the spices infuse the chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience that pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, then generously sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides.
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Crispy Skin Baked Thighs with Paprika

Crispy baked chicken thighs with a golden brown skin.

These crispy skin baked thighs are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and a flavorful paprika seasoning. The skin turns perfectly golden and crunchy, while the meat stays tender and succulent. It’s a straightforward recipe that brings big flavor with minimal effort, making it a hit for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

This dish is all about simple ingredients and easy preparation. With a few spices and some time in the oven, you’ll have a satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides. Whether served with a salad, rice, or roasted veggies, these thighs are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a baking dish.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub the spice mixture all over the thighs, making sure to get underneath the skin for maximum flavor.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Thighs

A plate of Mediterranean baked chicken thighs with tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s full of flavor and super easy to make, Mediterranean baked chicken thighs are a perfect choice. Juicy chicken thighs are combined with sweet cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese, creating a delicious meal that feels gourmet without the fuss.

The vibrant flavors of Mediterranean herbs and the juicy tomatoes make each bite a delight. This recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
  3. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Scatter the tomato and olive mixture around the chicken.
  4. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with feta cheese before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Sweet Chili Baked Chicken Thighs

Sweet chili glazed chicken thighs with broccoli on a plate.

Sweet Chili Baked Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors that everyone in the family will love. The chicken thighs become tender and juicy while the sweet chili sauce creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Plus, this recipe is super simple, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or rice, balancing the sweetness with some freshness. The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients to whip this up, and the results are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish and pour the sauce mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
  4. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs

Juicy lemon garlic roasted chicken thighs with slices of lemon

Lemon garlic roasted chicken thighs are a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor while remaining easy to prepare. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

This recipe results in juicy, tender chicken with a crispy skin that everyone will love. Simple ingredients come together to make a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets under the skin as well.
  4. Place the chicken in a baking dish and add lemon slices around it.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful lemon garlic roasted chicken thighs!

Savory Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs

Plate of savory maple mustard chicken thighs garnished with thyme

Savory Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The crispy, golden skin paired with the rich maple mustard glaze creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Plus, this recipe is super simple, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet. Serve it with some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded feast!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the maple mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Herbed Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Juicy Herbed Parmesan Chicken Thighs garnished with fresh herbs

Herbed Parmesan Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of juicy chicken and crispy, cheesy goodness. With a blend of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The savory crust adds texture while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, even if you’re short on time. Give this recipe a try for a tasty meal that will impress family and friends!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, then press the cheese and herb mixture onto the skin side of each thigh.
  4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin side up, and roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Herbed Parmesan Chicken Thighs!

BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs

Delicious BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs with sauce drizzled over

BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs are a delicious blend of tangy barbecue sauce and creamy ranch dressing that makes for a mouthwatering dish. The chicken thighs become incredibly juicy while the skin gets perfectly crispy in the oven. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also brings everyone together at the dinner table with its irresistible flavors.

Perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings, these chicken thighs are sure to impress. The combination of barbecue and ranch creates a delightful taste that pairs well with various sides, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and coat them evenly with the sauce mixture, making sure to get some under the skin for extra flavor.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs

A plate of honey soy glazed chicken thighs drizzled with sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds sing. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving you juicy thighs with a crispy finish. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners.

Your kitchen will smell amazing as these thighs bake, and they pair perfectly with rice or vegetables for a complete meal. Let’s jump into how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the thighs are golden and cooked through, basting with the marinade halfway through.
  5. Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Final thoughts


Baked chicken thighs are the unsung heroes of easy, flavorful home cooking—and with these 12 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them. They’re simple enough for a busy weeknight yet satisfying enough to serve to guests, making them a true staple in any kitchen. Try a few, find your favorites, and enjoy how these juicy, crispy dishes bring comfort and variety to your table every time.

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