Name: Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs, see note 1); 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 2-1/2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons salt (to taste); 1-1/2 teaspoons pepper (to taste)

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There’s just something special about Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs that warms my heart. It could be the crispy, caramelized edges that you get when you broil them to perfection or the way they fill the kitchen with an inviting aroma as they bake. This dish has been a family favorite for years, and it’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something hearty yet uncomplicated. Imagine bringing the family together around the dinner table, the laughter echoing as you serve up these succulent thighs, each bite revealing flavors that make everyone smile.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs always impress. The combination of spices—chili powder, cumin, and paprika—creates a flavor profile that feels both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s easy enough to throw together even when time is tight. I often find myself whipping it up after a long day, knowing that in less than an hour, I’ll have a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with warmth and love.

As we gather around the table, there’s an undeniable sense of togetherness that comes with sharing a meal. The crispy exterior of the chicken contrasted with its juicy interior creates a delightful experience with every bite. No one can resist reaching for seconds! So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, give Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs a try. I promise, it’ll become a staple in your home just like it has in mine.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
22 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Large sheet pan, Foil

Why This Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs Hits Different

Delicious Flavor Profile

The seasoning blend for Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs is a game changer. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika creates a savory experience that’s hard to resist. It’s not just about the spices, though; the balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness that balances everything perfectly.

Easy to Prepare

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish, this is it! The preparation is quick, and you don’t need any fancy techniques. Just mix the ingredients, season the chicken, and let the oven do the work. It’s perfect for busy evenings or last-minute dinner parties.

Family-Friendly

Everyone will love Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs. Even picky eaters will appreciate the crispy skin and tender meat. It’s a dish that brings smiles to faces, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Leftover Magic

One of my favorite things about this dish is how well it stores. Leftovers can be used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps, giving you multiple meals from one cooking session. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and keep lunches exciting!

Perfect for Any Season

No matter the time of year, Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs fits the bill. Serve it with seasonal vegetables in the spring, a hearty salad in the summer, warm grains in the fall, or comforting mashed potatoes in the winter—this dish adapts beautifully.

Impressive Presentation

When you serve Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs, the beautifully caramelized edges and vibrant colors make for an impressive dish. It looks as good as it tastes, ensuring your dinner table feels special and inviting.

Everything You Need for Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs

Let’s talk about the ingredients that come together to make your Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs shine. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building flavor and ensuring you have juicy, tender chicken.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: About six thighs, these are the stars of the dish. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them perfect for baking.
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices adhere to the chicken, creating that crispy exterior.
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: This ingredient introduces a sweet acidity that balances the spices beautifully.
2-1/2 teaspoons chili powder: This gives the chicken a kick that complements the other spices.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that enhances the dish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings depth to the seasoning mix without overpowering the chicken.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a subtle sweetness to the overall flavor profile.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; the right amount will elevate the entire dish.

Making This Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs is straightforward, and you’ll be amazed at how easily you can achieve restaurant-quality chicken at home.

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature ensures that your chicken gets a lovely, crispy exterior.
Line a large sheet pan (15×21-inch) with foil. This will help with cleanup and keep the chicken from sticking.
Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial; moisture will prevent browning. There’s no need to trim excess fat as it will render nicely during cooking.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This mixture is the magic that coats your chicken.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. I usually add about 2 teaspoons of salt and 1-1/2 teaspoons of pepper, but you can adjust based on your preference.
Rub or brush the seasoning mixture generously over the front and back of each thigh until they are evenly coated. Don’t be shy; you want every bite to be flavorful!
Arrange the chicken thighs flat on the prepared sheet pan, ensuring they are spaced out well. This allows for even cooking and proper browning.
Bake in the center of the oven for 15 minutes. This sets the foundation for a juicy interior.
After 15 minutes, move the oven rack to 8 inches from the heat source and switch to broil. Cook for an additional 7 to 10 minutes, or until the tops are nicely blackened and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Once done, remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.
Finally, brush the pan juices on top and slice or chop as desired. You’re ready to serve!

Customization Ideas

While the basic recipe for Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs is fantastic on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This makes great meal prep for the week!
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs. Just make sure to wrap them well in foil or a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. Consider pairing with quinoa or couscous for added texture.
Spice It Up: If you like heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the spice mixture for a different flavor profile. Just chop finely and mix in.
Marinate: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs for a couple of hours or overnight before cooking.
Glazing: For a sweet touch, brush some honey or maple syrup during the last few minutes of broiling.

Serving This Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs, the possibilities are endless. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Family Dinners: Serve the chicken alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome family meal.
Salads: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Wraps: Use the leftover chicken in wraps with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce for a quick lunch option.
Grains: Pair the chicken with quinoa, rice, or couscous to create a filling and healthy meal.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, but it also shines during gatherings. Serve it at a family barbecue or birthday party for an impressive centerpiece.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated easily in the oven or microwave.
Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted root vegetables, and in the summertime, pair with a refreshing corn salad or coleslaw.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Cooking chicken thighs at a high temperature helps achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking is crucial. It helps to lock in the juices and results in more flavorful meat.
Foil Lining: Using foil on your baking sheet can make cleanup much easier, and it also prevents the chicken from sticking.
Even Cooking: Choosing chicken thighs of similar size helps them cook evenly. If your thighs vary in size, the cooking time may need adjustment.

FAQ

To store leftovers of Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs, simply let them cool down to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them well in foil or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken thighs adds an extra layer of flavor. You can use the seasoning mix from the recipe and let the chicken sit in it for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. This will infuse the meat with delicious spices, making it even tastier when you bake it.

There are many options for side dishes that pair wonderfully with Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes. You can also pair them with grains like quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. The key is to balance the rich flavors of the chicken with lighter, refreshing sides.

If you need to adjust the recipe for different serving sizes, simply scale the ingredients up or down based on how many people you’re serving. The cooking time will remain the same, but make sure not to overcrowd the baking pan. If you’re cooking a larger batch, you might need to use two pans to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs is truly a standout dish that’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe delivers delicious results every time. I encourage you to try it out and see for yourself how satisfying and delightful it can be. You won’t be disappointed!