Description
These crispy baked chicken thighs with garlic herb butter are a budget-friendly, easy-to-make family favorite. Featuring bone-in, skin-on thighs dry-brined for maximum crispiness and basted with a savory herb butter, this oven-roasted meal delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Optional: Zest of one lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Sprinkle evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano. Rub spices into the skin and meat on both sides. Let sit on the counter for 15-30 minutes to dry brine.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt (if using unsalted butter) until combined into a paste.
- Spread the garlic herb butter generously over the skin of each chicken thigh, getting under the skin if possible.
- Place chicken on the baking sheet skin-side up, ensuring pieces are not touching. Bake for 35-40 minutes until skin is deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Notes
Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh per serving
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, budget family meal, garlic herb butter, easy dinner, keto friendly, high protein, one pan meal