Classic Oven-Baked Chicken (Juicy & Crispy)
Simple, reliable, and packed with flavor — perfect for weeknight dinners.
🛒 Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
(You can also use boneless breasts — see tips below)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano or thyme
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
2️⃣ Season the Chicken
Pat chicken dry with paper towels (this helps crisp the skin).
Rub with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix:
Salt
Pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
Onion powder
Oregano/thyme
Sprinkle seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.
3️⃣ Bake
Place chicken skin-side up on the baking sheet.
Bake:
Bone-in thighs/drumsticks: 35–45 minutes
Boneless breasts: 20–25 minutes
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4️⃣ Optional Crispy Finish
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispy skin (watch closely).
5️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy