The #1 thing you need to know about bone-in, skin-on Baked Chicken Thighs is that my family smashes them anytime I serve them for dinner.
Plates are licked clean, complaints are non-existent, plus baked chicken thighs require just 5 minutes of prep time and bake hands-off in the oven.
Chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways. When it comes to oven-baking, many home cooks default to 400 degrees Fahrenheit as their go-to temperature. But exactly how long does it take for chicken thighs to fully cook at this temperature?
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to cook juicy, flavorful chicken thighs in a 400 degree oven, including ideal cook times, factors that affect cook time, tips for crispy skin, recommended internal temperature, common mistakes, and more.
Typical Cook Times at 400 Degrees
In general, chicken thighs with the skin still on take 35 to 45 minutes to cook all the way through at 400 degrees F. Boneless, skinless thighs cook faster, usually in 20-30 minutes.
However, cook time can change for a number of reasons, which we’ll talk about next. Always use a meat thermometer to make sure the meat is done; looking at it can lead you astray.
Factors That Influence Cook Time
Several key factors impact how long chicken thighs take to cook in the oven at 400 degrees:
Bone-In vs Boneless
When cooking chicken thighs with the bone still in, it takes longer, more like 40 to 45 minutes, because the bone keeps the meat warm and slows down the cooking process. Boneless thighs cook faster, around 30 minutes.
Skin-On vs Skinless
The skin adds insulation and moisture, extending cook time slightly. Allow 10 extra minutes or so for skin-on. Skinless cook faster but can dry out easier.
Size and Thickness
Larger, meatier thighs require more time than smaller or thinner ones. Try to pick similarly sized thighs for even cooking. Even a half ounce difference changes timing.
Oven Accuracy
Oven temperatures can vary widely from set points. Use an oven thermometer and adjust your cook time accordingly if the temp is off
Tips for Getting Crispy Skin
To achieve crispy browned skin on your baked chicken thighs, follow these tips:
- Pat the skin very dry before seasoning
- Use a wire rack to allow air circulation
- Cook skin-side up first, then flip halfway
- Brush on a light coating of oil
- Broil for the last 3-5 minutes to finish
What Internal Temp to Aim For?
Chicken thighs are safely cooked and ready to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to insert your thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with the bone.
When properly cooked to 165°F, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork or knife. The meat will become firmer and white throughout, with no traces of pink.
Always rely on a thermometer for accuracy, as visual tests can be misleading. Cook longer if needed until 165°F is reached.
Step-by-Step Method for Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Follow these simple steps for foolproof baked chicken thighs every time:
- Pat the chicken thighs very dry with paper towels
- Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and spices
- Place on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet
- Bake skin-side up at 400°F for 20-30 minutes
- Flip thighs and bake until 165°F is reached, about 10-15 minutes longer
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Common Baking Mistakes
It’s easy to over or undercook chicken thighs. Here are some common errors to avoid:
- Not preheating the oven fully
- Overcrowding the baking sheet
- Using a thermometer incorrectly
- Neglecting to let them rest before serving
- Cooking straight from frozen (always thaw first)
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Brine chicken thighs in salty water before baking for extra moisture and flavor
- Use a baking powder based dry rub under the skin to help it crisp up
- Add aromatics to the pan like garlic, herbs, citrus, and chili peppers
- Roast vegetable side dishes on the same sheet pan for easy cleanup
- Store leftovers safely in the fridge for up to 4 days
Mastering baked chicken thighs at a reliable 400 degrees F takes some finesse, but the ideal cook time falls between 30-45 minutes depending on the factors discussed. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. With the proper technique, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken thighs with crispy browned skin every time.
How to Make Baked Chicken Thighs
Remove any extra skin from the chicken thighs first, and then use paper towels to pat them dry on both sides.
Baking Temperature and Timing
While the USDA says chicken thighs need to be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees, I recommend you bake them until they reach 180 – 190 degrees which takes 30-40 minutes at 400 degrees. We swear by this Thermapen for taking accurate internal temperature readings.
I’ve taken the chicken thighs out of the oven at 200 degrees more than once, and they’re still very soft.
If you’re the type of person that gets nervous about undercooking chicken, then chicken thigh recipes are definitely for you.
How long does chicken take to bake at 400?
FAQ
How long does it take to cook chicken thighs at 400 degrees?
Baking chicken thighs at 400°F typically takes 35-45 minutes, but the exact time can vary based on whether they are bone-in or boneless, and their size.
Is 400 too high for chicken thighs?
The Best Temperature For Cooking Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs. Whether they’re on a sheet pan, in a skillet, or in a saucy marinade, the best temperature for cooking boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the oven is between 400°F and 450°F, with 425°F being the temperature we rely on most often.
What’s the best temperature for baking chicken thighs?
In an oven preheated to 375 degrees F, chicken thighs should be fully cooked after about half an hour. You’ll know they’re done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone, reads 165 degrees F.
How long to cook chicken thighs at 400?
Happy cooking! What is the ideal cooking time for chicken thighs at 400°F? The ideal cooking time for chicken thighs at 400°F typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs and whether they are bone-in or boneless.
How to cook chicken thighs at 400 degrees?
Cooking chicken thighs at 400 degrees brings crispy skin and juicy meat. Follow these steps to get it just right. Clean the chicken thighs under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. Dry skin means crispy skin. Trim any excess fat. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can experiment with other spices too.
How long do you cook chicken thighs in the oven?
Just make sure each piece gets a good coating. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken thighs skin side up in a baking dish. Bake chicken thighs for 35 to 40 minutes. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
What temperature should chicken thighs be cooked at?
To ensure they are cooked through, it is essential to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which guarantees that the chicken is safe to eat. How can I make sure the chicken thighs cook evenly?.
Can you cook frozen chicken thighs at 400 degrees?
Cooking frozen chicken thighs directly at 400°F is not recommended for safety and quality reasons. It’s best to thaw the chicken thighs properly before cooking. To do this, put them in the fridge overnight or, if you’re in a hurry, use the defrost setting on your microwave.
How long do you cook chicken thighs Skin side up?
Place the chicken thighs skin side up in a baking dish. Bake chicken thighs for 35 to 40 minutes. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Want to speed things up?.