Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Italian cuisine with these baked chicken thighs. This dish combines aromatic herbs and spices to create a mouthwatering meal that is both simple and delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these chicken thighs are sure to impress.
If you don't commonly stock dried oregano or dried basil in your pantry, you might need to pick these up at the supermarket. These herbs are essential for achieving the authentic Italian flavor in this recipe. Additionally, make sure you have paprika on hand, as it adds a subtle smokiness to the dish.

Ingredients for Italian Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Chicken thighs: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum flavor and crispy skin.
Olive oil: Helps to coat the chicken and keep it moist during baking.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.
Garlic powder: Provides a rich, garlicky flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds a robust, earthy flavor.
Dried basil: Contributes a sweet, aromatic note to the seasoning blend.
Paprika: Adds color and a mild, smoky flavor to the chicken.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve perfectly crispy chicken thighs, make sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before applying the olive oil and spice mixture. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: They will cook faster and be slightly less juicy, but still flavorful.
bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: They have a similar cooking time and flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: It has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for baking.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: It is neutral in flavor and also has a high smoke point, suitable for baking.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: It has a similar taste but is less refined, often preferred for cooking.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: It provides a slightly different mineral content and flavor, but works well in most recipes.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: It has a milder flavor and is less visually noticeable in the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: It adds a bit of heat and a different flavor profile.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for a more intense and aromatic flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: It provides a different but complementary flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with fresh oregano: Use about three times the amount of fresh oregano for a more vibrant flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: It offers a slightly different but still Mediterranean flavor.
dried basil - Substitute with fresh basil: Use about three times the amount of fresh basil for a more aromatic flavor.
dried basil - Substitute with dried parsley: It provides a different but still complementary herbal note.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: It adds a smoky depth to the dish.
paprika - Substitute with chili powder: It adds a bit of heat and a different flavor profile.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
How To Store / Freeze This Recipe
- Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the skin soggy.
- Transfer the cooled chicken thighs to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to keep the skin crispy.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best flavor and texture, consume within this timeframe.
- For freezing, wrap each chicken thigh individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps the chicken tasting fresh.
- Place the wrapped chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. While the chicken will remain safe to eat beyond this period, the quality may start to decline.
- To reheat refrigerated chicken thighs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- For reheating frozen chicken thighs, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated chicken.
- For a quicker option, you can reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, but note that this method may not keep the skin as crispy.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the chicken with another piece of foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the top foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method helps to maintain the crispiness of the skin.
Microwave Method: Place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to trap steam. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. Be cautious as this method can sometimes make the skin less crispy.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method is excellent for keeping the skin crispy.
Sous Vide Method: If you have a sous vide machine, set it to 140°F (60°C). Place the chicken thighs in a vacuum-sealed bag and immerse them in the water bath for about 45 minutes. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender. Finish by searing the skin in a hot skillet for a minute or two to regain its crispiness.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the chicken thighs at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).
Mixing bowl: Used to combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and paprika.
Baking dish: Holds the chicken thighs while they bake in the oven.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and paprika accurately.
Basting brush: Helps to evenly rub the olive oil and spice mixture over the chicken thighs.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken thighs without contaminating other surfaces.
Meat thermometer: Ensures that the chicken thighs are cooked through by checking the internal temperature.
Aluminum foil: Can be used to cover the baking dish if the chicken skin is browning too quickly.
Cooling rack: Allows the chicken to rest and the juices to redistribute before serving.
Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to rest the chicken thighs before and after baking.
Knife: Useful for trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken thighs before cooking.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix the olive oil and spices in advance to save time when you're ready to cook.
Use a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and faster cooking.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping the chicken thighs to save time.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and cook extra chicken thighs for easy meals throughout the week.
Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking by using a meat thermometer.

Italian Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and paprika.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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