KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 40-55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: ~$10
- Diet: Gluten-free, Low-carb
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Baking sheet or dish
- Rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Paper towels
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Alternative: Air fryer (adjust cooking time to 25-30 minutes)
INGREDIENTS
Main:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless/skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
Seasoning Mix:
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (15g)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5g)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (5g)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, 5g)
- 1½ teaspoons salt (7.5g)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (2.5g)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
METHOD
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels
- Mix all seasonings in a bowl
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil, then coat thoroughly with seasoning mixture
- Place chicken skin-side up on baking sheet, leaving space between pieces
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Optional: Broil 2-3 minutes for extra crispy skin
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t skip drying the chicken – moisture prevents crispiness
- Leave space between pieces to avoid steaming
- Always check internal temperature at thickest part
- Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freeze up to 1 month
- Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes
Popular Variations:
- BBQ: Brush with sauce in final 15 minutes
- Lemon-Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs to seasoning
- Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to mix
COMMON MISTAKES
- Overcrowding the pan
- Not patting chicken dry
- Opening oven too frequently
- Undercooking (always check temperature)
Remember: The key to perfectly crispy skin is starting with dry chicken and maintaining high heat throughout cooking.
