These oven-baked boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and ready in just 30 minutes! With a little seasoning, you’ll have a tasty meal without the fuss.
I love how quick and simple they are to make. Just pop them in the oven and set a timer! Perfect for those nights when I’m too hungry to wait long.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless skinless thighs are perfect for this recipe due to their tenderness and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but watch the baking time as they can dry out faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade stick. If you don’t have olive oil, canola or avocado oil can be good substitutes. Both have high smoke points and a mild flavor.
Soy Sauce: It provides a savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You can also try coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, agave syrup or maple syrup will work well, too. Just keep in mind that it might change the flavor slightly.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds a nice acidity that balances the sweetness. If you run out, white wine vinegar is a decent alternative, but it’s less fruity.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you want to save time, use a store-bought spice blend that includes these flavors, like a poultry seasoning mix.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few steps can help you nail it every time. The goal is to have juicy, flavorful chicken that’s safe to eat. Here are my tips:
- Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before putting in the chicken. This helps cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You want it to hit 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy as the juices redistribute.
- If broiling for crispiness, watch closely! A minute or two can make a big difference to avoid burning.
Following these steps will give you deliciously cooked chicken thighs every time. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
30-Minute Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus 20-25 minutes baking time. So in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will help with cleanup later.
2. Mix the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Make sure everything is well mixed together!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around well until they’re fully coated. Let them sit and soak up those flavors for about 10 minutes, or longer if you have extra time.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Once marinated, take the chicken thighs and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have a bit of space in between so they cook evenly.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through, so check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Optional Crispy Finish:
If you like your chicken with a crispy finish, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bake them for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) since they take longer to cook compared to boneless thighs. Just remember to check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part, not touching the bone!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, try using tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a sweeter, slightly milder flavor. Both work well in this marinade, maintaining the flavor profile of the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the chicken’s tenderness!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to enhance the flavors. Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator while it marinates. If you’re using a marinade with high acidity (like vinegar), 24 hours is typically the maximum to avoid affecting the texture of the chicken.
