1-First Step: Get the oven and pan ready Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup. A rimmed baking sheet works best because it catches the juices as the chicken cooks. If you enjoy easy one-pan dinners, this same kind of setup works nicely for dishes like coconut lime grilled chicken thighs when adapted for the oven or for another quick chicken meal.

2-Second Step: Pat the chicken dry Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry on all sides. This is one of the most important parts of the recipe because dry skin helps create a crispier finish. If the chicken is too wet, the skin will steam instead of brown. This simple step makes a big difference in how your baked chicken turns out.

3-Third Step: Arrange and coat with oil Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, skin-side up if you are using skin-on thighs. Drizzle the chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then rub the oil all over the thighs so they are lightly coated. The oil helps the seasoning cling to the surface and supports browning in the oven.

4-Fourth Step: Mix the seasoning blend In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Stir well so the spices are evenly mixed. This blend gives the chicken a classic savory flavor that works for almost any side dish.

5-Fifth Step: Season the chicken evenly Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece gets a good coating. Try to cover the top and sides as evenly as possible. If you like a stronger seasoning crust, gently press the spices into the chicken with clean hands. That extra contact helps the seasoning stick as the chicken bakes.

6-Sixth Step: Bake until cooked through Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. The exact timing depends on the size of the thighs and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Bone-in, skin-on thighs usually need the full time, while boneless skinless thighs may be done about 10 minutes sooner. Start checking near the 35-minute mark if your thighs are on the smaller side.

7-Seventh Step: Check the internal temperature Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken, making sure the probe does not touch the bone. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. That temperature keeps the meat safe to eat while still juicy. If you prefer very tender dark meat, some cooks like to let it go a little higher, but 165 degrees is the key safety point.

8-Final Step: Rest and serve Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. Resting helps the juices settle back into the meat so they do not run out as soon as you cut into it. Then serve your Oven Baked Chicken Thighs hot with your favorite side dishes. They pair well with roasted vegetables, potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.