how long 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 25-30 minutes for small thighs (1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 35-40 minutes for medium thighs (1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes for large thighs (2.5-3.5 pounds).
Boneless Chicken Thighs:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes for small thighs (1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes for medium thighs (1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes for large thighs (2.5-3.5 pounds).
Internal Temperature:
Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh.
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 season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices before baking.
- If you want crispy skin, bake the chicken at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for the first 10-15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the remaining time.
Remember, always check the chicken for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the thigh. If it’s not cooked through, bake for a few more minutes and check again.
