Southern Baked Chicken Thighs
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking dish or tray with foil for easy cleanup—it makes post-dinner chores a breeze!
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve that perfect, crispy skin.
- Rub the thighs with olive oil or melted butter to keep them moist and add flavor.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Generously season the chicken on all sides with the spice mixture, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Place the thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For an extra touch of crispiness, broil the top for 2-3 minutes until desired.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Southern Baked Chicken Thighs, the options are endless. Pair them with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread for a true Southern feast. A fresh slaw can also add a nice crunch and balance the rich flavors of the chicken. For a lighter meal, consider a simple garden salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken thighs. You can wrap them tightly in foil or use a freezer-friendly bag, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to enjoy them safely.
Helpful cooking tips
Cooking chicken thighs can be simple, but here are a few tips to elevate your dish:
- Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before seasoning; the moisture can prevent crisping.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- If you want to experiment, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs for a garden-fresh twist!
Creative twists
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, consider these creative variations:
- Experiment with different spice blends—try a cajun mix or even a lemon-herb blend for a fresh take.
- Add a sweet element like honey or maple syrup to the olive oil for a glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
- For a healthier option, skip the skin and use boneless thighs, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare Southern Baked Chicken Thighs?
The preparation time is around 10-15 minutes, and cooking takes about 35-45 minutes, making it an overall quick meal option.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! If using boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time to around 25-30 minutes, checking for a safe internal temperature.
How should I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them on medium for a few minutes, but the oven is best for keeping the skin crispy.
Dive into this delicious recipe and savor the essence of Southern cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Southern Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking dish or tray with foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Rub the thighs with olive oil or melted butter.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Generously season the chicken on all sides with the spice mixture.
- Place the thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispiness, broil the top for 2-3 minutes if desired.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
