If you love crispy, golden-brown chicken with juicy, flavorful meat, these Crispy Chicken Thighs will become a staple in your kitchen. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality crispiness right from your oven or stovetop. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or high-protein diet, these chicken thighs are a perfect addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden: Perfectly crisp skin without deep frying.
- Juicy & Tender: Dark meat stays moist and flavorful.
- Quick & Easy: Cooks in under 30 minutes.
- Keto & Low-Carb: Naturally zero-carb meal.
- Versatile: Pairs well with any side dish.
Ingredients Breakdown
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for extra crispiness)
Substitutions & Variations:
- Swap olive oil for avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
- Use boneless thighs but reduce cooking time by 5 minutes.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Pan-Sear (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked thighs for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes for best crispiness.
Nutrition & Dietary Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 0g
Serving Suggestions & Topping Ideas
- Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic mashed cauliflower.
- Pair with a fresh arugula salad for a light meal.
- Drizzle with lemon butter sauce for extra richness.
- Add a side of homemade ranch dressing for dipping.
FAQs
How do I make the skin extra crispy?
Make sure the chicken is completely dry before cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use boneless thighs?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to 12-15 minutes.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
