When it comes to some of the best home-cooked dishes, few dishes offer the same level of comfort and flavor as a perfectly baked boneless chicken thigh. This humble yet versatile cut has become a weeknight hero for many, garnering a reputation for its juicy tenderness and unmatched savory appeal.
We’ll teach you everything you need to know about baking boneless chicken thighs, including how to get the perfect mix of crispy skin and juicy meat in one simple recipe.
As a home cook, learning how to make a simple baked chicken thigh that’s juicy and flavorful can be a game changer for your weeknight dinners. Chicken thighs are an underrated cut that is affordable, easy to cook, and full of rich, meaty flavor. But to get the best results when baking chicken thighs, proper timing is key.
How long should you bake a chicken thigh at 350°F? Here’s everything you need to know to always get tender, juicy chicken thighs.
Factors That Affect Chicken Thigh Bake Times
While 350°F is a standard baking temperature, several factors impact just how long your chicken thighs need to cook:
Bone-in vs Boneless
Bone-in chicken thighs take longer to cook than boneless thighs. The bones act as insulators, slowing the cooking process. Expect thighs with bones to take 10 to 15 minutes longer than thighs without bones.
Skin-on vs Skinless
The skin helps chicken thighs retain moisture as they cook. For skin-on thighs, you might need a few more minutes to get the skin crispy. You could start at a higher temperature (400°F) for 15 minutes and then lower the heat to 350°F.
Thickness
It takes longer to cook through thicker thighs than thin ones. Buy chicken thighs that are about the same size so they bake evenly. If there’s a large size difference, remove smaller ones earlier.
Oven Accuracy
Ovens can run hot or cold. Verify your oven temp with an oven thermometer and adjust cook times accordingly.
Recommended Bake Times
Given those factors, here are general guidelines for how long to bake chicken thighs at 350°F:
- Boneless, skinless thighs: 30-40 minutes
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs: 45-55 minutes
The most accurate test is to use an instant read thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken thighs are safe to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Follow these tips for flawlessly baked chicken thighs every time
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Pat the thighs dry before baking for crispy skin. Moisture will make the skin soggy.
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Use a meat thermometer to guarantee doneness without overbaking.
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Let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving so juices redistribute.
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Add seasonings under the skin for maximum flavor impact. Try garlic, herbs, citrus, or spices.
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Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispy skin. But watch closely to avoid burning.
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Brush on a sauce like barbecue, teriyaki, or honey mustard during the last 10-15 minutes for delicious flavor.
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Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air flow for crisping the skin.
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Pair chicken thighs with roasted veggies like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for an easy one-pan meal.
Common Chicken Thigh Baking Questions
If you’re new to baking chicken thighs, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Can I bake frozen chicken thighs at 350°F?
Yes, but frozen thighs will take about 60-75 minutes to bake versus 30-50 minutes for thawed. Always thaw first if possible for juicier, more evenly cooked results.
Should I cover the thighs while they bake?
Covering can help retain moisture. But leave uncovered for the last 15 minutes for crispy skin. Or, cover only the first half of baking time.
What temperature should baked chicken thighs reach?
Chicken thighs are safe to eat once they reach an internal temp of 165°F. Check with a meat thermometer for doneness.
What are good seasonings for baked thighs?
Herbs, spices, citrus, barbecue sauce, and dry rubs all complement baked chicken thighs. Get creative with garlic, rosemary, cumin, chili powder, lemon, and more.
How can I keep the thighs moist?
Brining, spatchcocking, and basting all help retain moisture. Don’t overcook, and let thighs rest before cutting to preserve juices.
Satisfying Meals with Baked Chicken Thighs
From weekday dinners to impressive company meals, baked chicken thighs pair well with endless side dishes. Here are some delicious baked chicken thigh meal ideas:
- Chicken thigh fajitas with sautéed peppers and onions
- Baked chicken thighs with roasted broccoli and rice
- Chicken thigh sandwiches topped with pesto mayo and arugula
- Chicken thigh salad with romaine, feta, and lemon vinaigrette
- Chicken thigh tacos with pineapple salsa and avocado
With the proper technique, baking chicken thighs at 350°F consistently produces juicy, flavorful results. Next time you’re planning an easy dinner, give baked chicken thighs a try. Just be sure to allow enough bake time for the thighs to cook through and use a thermometer to guarantee they reach a safe 165°F. In no time, you’ll be serving up tender, deliciously baked chicken thighs to rave reviews.
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Published April 16, 2024
Reviewed by Suze Dowling
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Prep Time
15 minutes
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Cook Time
25-30 minutes
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Total Time
40-45 minutes
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Yield
8 Chicken Thighs
When it comes to some of the best home-cooked dishes, few dishes offer the same level of comfort and flavor as a perfectly baked boneless chicken thigh. This simple but versatile cut has become a weeknight favorite for many thanks to its juicy tenderness and unbeatable savory appeal.
As we tell you everything you need to know about baking boneless chicken thighs, we’ll teach you how to achieve that ideal balance of crispy skin and succulent meat all in one easy recipe.
Why Boneless Chicken Thighs?
When it comes to selecting the star of your meal, boneless skinless chicken thighs stand out for a few compelling reasons. Juicy and flavorful, these cuts offer a delightful alternative to the often-leaner chicken breast, providing a rich taste and succulent texture that leaves taste buds tingling with delight.
Rich in nutrients such as potassium, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A, boneless chicken thighs also offer a beneficial option for those mindful of their nutritional intake. Notably, they present a lower cholesterol content compared to fried chicken breast, making them an appealing choice for health-conscious individuals seeking a hearty yet balanced meal option.
How to Bake Chicken Thighs: Temperature, Baking Time & Recipe | How to Cook Chicken by MOMables
FAQ
How long does it take to cook chicken thighs on 350?
The USDA guidelines lists approximate cooking times of 40 to 50 minutes for 4-to-8-ounce chicken thighs roasted at 350 degrees. In our basic meal prep boneless chicken thighs recipe, they take about 25 to 30 minutes baked at 425 degrees F.
Is it better to bake chicken thighs at 350 or 400?
The Best Temperature For Cooking Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs. When cooking boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the oven, the best temperature is between 400°F and 450°F. We usually use 425°F. This is true whether the chicken is on a sheet pan, in a skillet, or in a saucy marinade. Aug 28, 2024.
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.
Is it better to bake chicken legs at 350 or 400?
Most people think that baking chicken legs at 400°F (204°C) is better than 350°F (177°C) because the skin gets crispier and the meat stays juicy.