Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner recipe that won't keep you chained to the stove? Look no further! This oven-baked boneless chicken thigh recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and effortless weekend meals. Tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned to perfection, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, easily adaptable to your preferred tastes, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that's both satisfying and impressive.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a simple yet effective tip for effortless homemade cooking.
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Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them evenly with the delicious spice blend. Ensure each thigh is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
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Arrange & Bake: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets. This ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
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Add Broth (Optional): Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the bottom of the baking sheet. This will help keep the chicken moist during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender and juicy chicken. Serve with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad all pair beautifully.
Tips for the Best Boneless Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding prevents even cooking and can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Bone-in thighs: For a richer flavor, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Increase the baking time accordingly.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the seasoning mixture.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken: Whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and brush over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal without sacrificing time or effort. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals, proving that delicious dishes can also be quick and simple to make. Enjoy!