Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

Why Make This Recipe

Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. You get crispy, golden skin with juicy meat inside, all without the mess of frying. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires just a few ingredients!

How to Make Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, drizzle olive oil over the thighs and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roll each thigh in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
5. Arrange the coated thighs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

How to Serve Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs are best served hot and crispy. Pair them with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy them with dips like ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for an extra flavor boost!

How to Store Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

To store leftover Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the thighs in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

• Make sure to pat the chicken dry well; this helps the skin get crispy.
• Adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more spices for a bolder flavor.
• If you want extra crunch, you can add a mixture of regular breadcrumbs and panko for texture.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain moisture.

Variation

Try adding different herbs or spices to the panko breadcrumbs, such as Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper for heat, or even grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. You can also switch out chicken thighs for drumsticks or wings if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but the cooking time may be slightly shorter. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight can add more flavor. Just make sure to pat the chicken dry before coating with breadcrumbs.

Can I reheat the leftovers?

Yes, to reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the skin crispy.

Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs

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A healthier alternative to fried chicken, featuring crispy skin and juicy meat, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, drizzle olive oil over the thighs and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roll each thigh in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
5. Arrange the coated thighs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry well for extra crispiness. Adjust seasoning according to your preference and consider mixing regular breadcrumbs with panko for added texture.

• Author: nevaeh-hall
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Poultry

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 100mg