Easy Oven Baked Italian Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect blend of easy prep and delicious results. The Italian seasoning infuses the chicken with rich, herby flavor, and baking the thighs in the oven ensures a crispy skin and juicy center without the need for constant attention. It’s budget-friendly, great for meal prep, and pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, salads, or pasta. Best of all, it takes just minutes to get into the oven.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, including under the skin if possible.
5. Place the thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add lemon zest or juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Use boneless, skinless thighs for a leaner option—reduce baking time by 5–10 minutes.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes for a cheesy crust.
• Add sliced tomatoes or onions to the pan for extra flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning blend.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.
You can also reheat in the microwave, though the skin may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. The chicken stores and reheats well, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.

Can I make this recipe without skin?

Yes, though the skin adds flavor and crispiness. Boneless, skinless thighs still work well.

What should I serve with Italian chicken thighs?

Great options include roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate in the spice mix and olive oil for up to 24 hours for extra flavor.

How do I get crispy skin?

Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly and bake at high heat without covering the pan.

Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in Italian dressing instead of using a dry rub for a different twist.

Can I freeze cooked chicken thighs?

Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—the thickest part should register 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your seasoning blends are free from additives containing gluten.

Conclusion

Easy Oven Baked Italian Chicken Thighs are a simple, flavorful solution for busy nights or hearty family meals. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and classic Italian herbs, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation. It’s quick to prep, endlessly adaptable, and pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Keep it in your back pocket for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner any night of the week.

Easy Oven Baked Italian Chicken Thighs

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Easy Oven Baked Italian Chicken Thighs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with classic Italian herb flavor. This quick-prep recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting family dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp.
3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, including under the skin if possible.
5. Place chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• For a leaner option, use boneless, skinless thighs and reduce cooking time by 5–10 minutes.
• Add lemon juice or zest for extra brightness.
• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking for added flavor.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, salad, or pasta for a complete meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 105mg