You'll Never Bake Chicken Thighs Any Other Way | Juicy OVEN Baked Chicken

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of baking juicy chicken thighs in the oven, based on the popular recipe from Island Vibe Cooking. Baking chicken thighs is an easy and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of meat, ensuring you achieve a tender and moist result every time.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.78 lb. chicken thighs
• 1 Tbsp. garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp. onion powder
• 1/2 Tbsp. dry thyme
• 1 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1/2 Tbsp. paprika
• 1/2 Tbsp. dry parsley
• 1 Tbsp. creole seasoning
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 Tbsp. adobo seasoning
• 1 Tbsp. oil (for coating)

Practical Tips

• For the best flavor, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
• Ensure all spices are fresh for maximum flavor impact.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Follow these steps to prepare your chicken for baking:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Clean the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine all the dry spices: garlic powder, onion powder, dry thyme, black pepper, paprika, dry parsley, creole seasoning, salt, and adobo seasoning.
   • Add the oil to the spice mix and stir until well combined.
   • Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t skip drying the chicken, as this helps the skin crisp up during baking.
• Be generous with the seasoning to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Now it's time to bake your chicken:

1. Arrange the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Broil for Crispiness (Optional): If you desire extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Practical Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

By following these straightforward steps, you can create deliciously juicy oven-baked chicken thighs that are full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or any gathering. Don’t forget to experiment with different spices and seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy your meal!