Description
A quick and easy recipe for crispy chicken thighs with a golden, crackly skin and juicy meat, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1.5–2 pounds / 700–900 grams)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 to 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. (5 minutes)
- Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. (2 minutes)
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. (3 minutes)
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down carefully in the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd (4-5 thighs comfortably).
- Cook undisturbed for about 7-9 minutes until the skin is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
- Flip the thighs and reduce heat to medium. Add fresh herbs to the pan for aroma. (1 minute)
- Continue cooking for another 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear. Cover briefly if needed. (7-10 minutes)
- Optional: Transfer the pan to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.
Notes
Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Use medium-high heat initially, then reduce after flipping. Rest chicken before serving. Optional oven finish or broil for extra crispiness. Reheat leftovers in oven on wire rack to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-26 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (abo
- Calories: 275
- Sodium: 550
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Protein: 18
Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, 5-ingredient meals, family dinner, quick chicken recipe, pan-seared chicken, gluten-free chicken