how long should you bake chicken thighs

The baking time for chicken thighs depends on several factors, including the size of the thighs, the oven temperature, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Here are some general guidelines:

Bone-in Chicken Thighs:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Bake for 25-35 minutes for small to medium-sized thighs (about 1-1.5 pounds).
• Bake for 35-45 minutes for larger thighs (about 1.5-2.5 pounds).

Boneless Chicken Thighs:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Bake for 15-25 minutes for small to medium-sized thighs (about 1-1.5 pounds).
• Bake for 25-35 minutes for larger thighs (about 1.5-2.5 pounds).

Internal Temperature:

• Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Tips:

• Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before baking to help the skin crisp up.
• You can also add your favorite seasonings, herbs, or marinades to the chicken before baking.

Oven Temperature Variations:

• If you prefer a crisper skin, you can bake the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for a shorter amount of time (about 20-25 minutes for bone-in thighs).
• If you prefer a more tender chicken, you can bake it at 375°F (190°C) for a longer amount of time (about 30-40 minutes for bone-in thighs).

Remember, always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).