I’m a huge fan of chicken thighs, especially the boneless, skinless kind. They’re cheap, forgiving to cook, and full of flavor. Just dark enough to stay juicy, but not so dark that white meat lovers will complain. Honestly, it’s hard to mess them up!
In summer, I grill them weekly for backyard gatherings. But when it’s cold or I just want an easy dinner indoors, I turn to the oven. Baking them is hands-down my favorite winter trick—fast, effortless, and totally satisfying.
How to Make Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For the Chicken: 
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil
Optional Sauce:
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Position a rack in the center and heat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil if you’re skipping the sauce, to help them brown nicely.
3. Make the sauce (optional): In another bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.
4. Combine: Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
5. Arrange in a dish: Place the thighs in a single layer in an 8- or 9-inch baking dish. No need to grease it—just lay them flat.
6. Bake: Roast until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), about 20 minutes. Check every 5 minutes after that if needed.
7. Rest: Cover the baking dish with foil and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices.
Serving Suggestions & Tips
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.
- Double the sauce for extra flavor and spoon it over your side dishes.
- These thighs are great for meal prep—just reheat and go!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for one, these baked chicken thighs are a delicious go-to. They’re fast, flavorful, and versatile enough to make again and again. No grilling gear required!
