Baked Italian Chicken Thighs is the perfect comforting meal for busy weeknights! This dish combines tender chicken thighs, aromatic Italian herbs, and zesty vegetables for a flavor-packed dinner that the whole family will love. It’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you need something quick, filling, and delicious!
Table of Contents
- Baked Italian Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Ingredients for Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- How to Make Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Tips for Making Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Reheating Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Baked Italian Chicken Thighs related recipes next!
- Easy Chicken Parmesan
- Creamy Italian Chicken Skillet
- Italian Sausage and Peppers
- One-Pan Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Baked Italian Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights. This baked Italian chicken thighs recipe is a breeze to prepare and will impress your family with its rich flavor.
- Flavorful and Juicy. Thanks to the marinade of Italian herbs and seasonings, these chicken thighs remain incredibly tender and juicy throughout the cooking process!
Ingredients for Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, providing the best flavor.
- Olive Oil: Gives richness and helps to crisp the skin.
- Garlic: Minced for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Italian Seasoning: Essential for that classic Italian taste.
- Salt & Pepper: For basic seasoning.
- Optional Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano): Enhances the flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice: Adds acidity and freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat, optional.
How to Make Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, and then add them to the bowl with the marinade. Coat each thigh evenly in the mixture.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish, skin side up, and pour any remaining marinade on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving and drizzle with fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Tips for Making Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Use Bone-in Thighs: Always opt for bone-in chicken thighs as they remain juicier than boneless options.
- Marinate Overnight: For even better flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight in the refrigerator.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can marinate the chicken thighs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the marinade and store it separately. When ready to cook, just add the chicken thighs to the marinade.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked Italian chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they have cooled completely before storing.
Freezing Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
- Place the chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken thighs on a baking tray. Cover loosely with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave heating is also possible; place on a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but boneless thighs may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with baked Italian chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs pair well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
What temperature should I bake chicken thighs?
Bake chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for optimal results.
How do I know when chicken thighs are cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I marinate chicken thighs overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
