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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Herb Butter

crispy baked chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, juicy baked chicken thighs infused with a rich garlic herb butter. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs or 700 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Zest of half a lemon
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  4. Lightly oil a rimmed baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up, spaced apart for air circulation.
  5. Brush each thigh generously with the garlic herb butter, including under the skin where possible.
  6. Season the thighs with additional salt and pepper, and sprinkle smoked paprika or chili flakes if using.
  7. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each thigh skin-side down using tongs and brush again with garlic herb butter.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, flipping back skin-side up for the last 5 minutes. The skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Use room temperature butter for easy spreading. Baste the chicken twice during baking for maximum flavor and moisture. If skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning. Rest chicken before serving to redistribute juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, garlic herb butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken, comfort food, weeknight dinner