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Crispy baked Italian chicken thighs with golden skin and Italian herbs served on a white plate.
foodbycuisine

Crispy Baked Italian Chicken Thighs

These Crispy Baked Italian Chicken Thighs deliver rich flavor, golden skin, and tender meat using simple pantry herbs and olive oil. A fast, affordable dinner that fits any weeknight meal plan
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American Italian, Italian
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 | pieces | Chicken thighs | Bone-in skin-on
  • 2 | tablespoons | Olive oil | Extra virgin preferred
  • 1 | teaspoon | Garlic powder |
  • 1 | teaspoon | Onion powder |
  • 1 | tablespoon | Italian seasoning |
  • 1 | teaspoon | Paprika |
  • 1 | teaspoon | Salt | Or to taste
  • 0.5 | teaspoon | Black pepper | Freshly cracked
  • 1 | whole | Lemon | For squeezing after baking
  • 2 | tablespoons | Fresh parsley | Chopped for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp during baking.
  3. Mix the Seasoning Blend
  4. In a mixing bowl combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Coat with Olive Oil
  6. Place the chicken thighs in a clean bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until each piece is well coated.
  7. Season Generously
  8. Sprinkle the herb blend over the chicken thighs and rub it in to ensure even coverage.
  9. Arrange on Baking Sheet
  10. Place the seasoned thighs skin-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece.
  11. Bake Until Crispy
  12. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 40 minutes or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  13. Add Lemon and Rest
  14. Remove the chicken from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and let the thighs rest for 5 minutes.
  15. Garnish and Serve
  16. Add chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For extra crispiness, place the chicken under the broiler for the final 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Letting the chicken rest ensures the juices redistribute for a tender, moist bite.