Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Directions

1. Preheat oven. Set your oven to 220°C / 428°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season chicken. Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare marinade. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, dill, honey, and lemon zest. Mix well.
4. Coat chicken. Place the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
5. Marinate (optional). Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse, though you can bake immediately if short on time.
6. Bake. Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
7. Serve. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
• Herb alternatives: Swap oregano and dill for thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
• Sweet twist: Drizzle a little extra honey or maple syrup over the thighs before baking for more caramelization.
• Citrus flavor: Use lime or orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrusy aroma.

Serving Suggestions