Our favourite easy baked chicken thighs (oven or air fryer)
If you've got chicken thighs and some basic herbs and spices in the pantry, plus some simple sides, you've got an easy but delicious dinner! This is my go-to simple baked chicken thigh recipe. Bake in either your oven or air fryer!
Preheat the oven to 355F/180C and prepare a baking tray by lining it with foil or baking paper.
Mix all the herbs and spices together on a small plate or bowl.
Rub each chicken thigh all over with olive oil, then roll in the herbs/spices until well covered.
Place the chicken on the prepared baking tray. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear or internal temperature is 165F or 75C.
Serve 1 to 2 thighs per person with your choice of sides (potatoes or fries, sweet potato wedges, salad and bread, flavoured rice or risotto, vegetables).
Video
Notes
Cooking time
Oven: I usually bake my chicken thighs for around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on their size. They are usually done after 35 minutes but if in doubt leave them for a little longer. You won't ruin them - they'll still be moist and juicy!Air fryer: You'll only need to bake your thighs for 15 to 17 minutes in your air fryer.
Adapting the recipe
No garlic powder? Don't like cumin? No problem! Just skip them, or add a bit of lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning or a pinch of chili flakes instead. You can also rub the chicken thighs with a bit of honey before rolling in the spice mixture for a delicious hit of sweetness.
Don't have a wire rack?
No worries! Just bake the chicken on a baking tray lined with baking paper or foil. Turn it half way through cooking.
What to serve it with
I sometimes make some homemade fries/chips to go with our chicken thighs, or sweet potato wedges. How to make potato wedges/chips: Parboil wedges for 10 minutes, drain and let steam for a few minutes. Toss with olive oil on a lined baking tray. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes at 200C/390F until golden and crispy. How to make sweet potato wedges: Slice peeled sweet potato into thick wedges. Toss in olive oil, salt and pepper, a bit of paprika/herbs if you like. Place on a wire rack over a lined baking tray. Bake for 30-35 minutes at 230C/445F. Then grill/broil for a few minutes on each side to get lovely and crispy.