Baked Chicken Thighs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
   • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
   • Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
3. Seasoning Blend:
   • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the zest of half the lemon. Mix everything together to create a flavorful seasoning paste.
4. Season the Chicken Thighs:
   • Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Make sure to lift the skin and rub some seasoning underneath for maximum flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken Thighs:
   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Broil for Crispy Skin (Optional):
   • If the skin isn’t as crispy as desired, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as broilers can quickly brown the skin.
7. Rest and Serve:
   • Once done, remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Squeeze the juice from the lemon over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve the baked chicken thighs hot.

Tips:

• Skin Crispiness: For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken skin is dry before applying the seasoning and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, allowing the air to circulate around each thigh.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend with your favorite herbs and spices. Add a pinch of chili powder for heat or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these delicious baked chicken thighs with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or alongside your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes or rice.

Enjoy your flavorful baked chicken thighs!