Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs with Spiced Rub Recipe

Introduction

Baked boneless chicken thighs are a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. With a blend of smoky and spicy seasonings, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken every time.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (not regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
2. Step 2: Add the olive oil and all the spices to the bowl. Use your hands to thoroughly coat the chicken thighs with the oil and seasoning mixture.
3. Step 3: Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer on a rimmed baking dish, such as a 9 x 13-inch dish. If there is any extra oil and spice mixture left in the bowl, brush it onto the chicken pieces for extra flavor.
4. Step 4: Bake the chicken uncovered without turning until cooked through, juices run clear, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 165°F. This typically takes about 30 minutes, but times may vary depending on thigh size and oven temperature.
5. Step 5: Remove the chicken from the oven and briefly turn the pieces to coat them in the pan juices before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispy edges, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Swap smoked paprika with regular paprika for a milder smoky flavor, or add a teaspoon of chili powder for extra heat.
• Marinate the chicken with the oil and spices for 30 minutes to an hour before baking to deepen flavor.
• Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and balance.

Storage

Store leftover baked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to preserve juiciness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, but bone-in thighs will take longer to cook—typically 40 to 45 minutes at 400°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F internally.

How can I tell when the chicken is done without a thermometer?

Cut into the thickest part of a thigh; the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink. However, a thermometer is the most reliable method for food safety.

Baked Boneless Chicken Thighs with Spiced Rub Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.9 from 128 reviews

• Author: lilan
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This recipe features juicy, flavorful baked boneless skinless chicken thighs seasoned with a robust blend of spices including smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper. Oven-baked to perfection, these chicken thighs deliver a tender and satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (not regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking chicken thighs evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in a large bowl to prepare for seasoning.
3. Season the Chicken: Add olive oil and all the spices — kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper — to the chicken. Use your hands to evenly coat each piece ensuring full flavor coverage.
4. Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer on a rimmed baking dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan. If there is leftover oil and spice mixture in the bowl, brush it over the chicken for extra flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken uncovered without turning them. Bake until the thighs are cooked through, the juices run clear, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 165°F (74°C). This generally takes about 30 minutes but watch for doneness earlier if pieces are small or your oven runs hot.
6. Serve: Remove from oven and briefly turn the thighs to coat them in the pan juices for enhanced juiciness, then serve immediately.

Notes

• Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and your oven’s temperature accuracy; smaller pieces may cook faster.
• Using an instant-read thermometer helps ensure proper doneness and food safety.
• Patting the chicken dry before seasoning promotes better browning and crispiness.
• Brushing leftover marinade on the chicken before baking enhances flavor and moisture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked chicken thighs, boneless chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken, smoked paprika chicken