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Crispy Oven-Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Easy Paprika Rub Recipe

crispy oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers crispy oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs with a smoky paprika rub, offering a golden crust and juicy interior without frying. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: fresh lemon juice for squeezing after baking
  • Optional: fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add olive oil to the spice mixture and stir until it forms a paste-like consistency.
  5. Coat each chicken thigh evenly with the paprika rub, massaging it into every nook.
  6. Arrange the chicken on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, spaced out to allow air circulation.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Around 20 minutes in, rotate the pan if needed for even cooking.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
  9. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the thighs and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispiness. Using a wire rack allows air circulation for an even crust. Optional broiling at the end enhances crispiness but watch carefully to avoid burning. If you don’t have a wire rack, baking directly on foil or parchment is possible but may result in less crispy bottoms. For leftovers, reheat gently in the oven to maintain texture. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, oven-baked chicken, paprika chicken, boneless skinless chicken, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/crispy-oven-baked-boneless-skinless-chicken-thighs-easy-paprika-rub-recipe/