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A plate of delicious and easy weeknight chicken thighs, ready to serve.

Easy Weeknight Chicken Thigh Dinner Base

This recipe provides a versatile base for various chicken dinners, featuring perfectly seasoned and cooked bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. It's an excellent starting point for multiple meal ideas.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 - 2 lbs Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (4-6 pieces)
  • 1-2 tablespoons Olive oil
Seasoning Blend
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (or to taste)

Equipment

  • Oven-safe skillet
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Small bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove chicken thighs from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking and pat them dry.
  2. Mix all seasonings in a small bowl, drizzle olive oil on chicken, then rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken.
Cooking
  1. Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  2. Flip the chicken thighs over.
  3. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Finishing
  1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving or using in desired dinner ideas.

Notes

This recipe is a versatile base. Feel free to adjust seasoning to your preference. Ensure chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C) for food safety. You can use this base for Classic Roast Chicken Dinner, Shredded Chicken Tacos/Bowls, Chicken & Pasta Medley, or Flavor-Packed Chicken Salad.