Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
These baked Italian chicken thighs are the ultimate easy dinner recipe. Super easy to make and so delicious!
Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
This baked Italian chicken thighs recipe is simple and full of flavor.
With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
The chicken comes out tender and juicy every time. Marinating the chicken in Italian dressing makes it super easy to add flavor.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something quick and tasty.
Ingredients
Chicken thighs: I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor.
Italian dressing: You can use store-bought or homemade Italian dressing.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is always the best choice for this recipe if possible.
Italian seasoning: This blend typically contains oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. You can use store-bought Italian seasoning or make your own by mixing these herbs together.
Salt & Pepper
How to Make
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
While the oven is heating up, place the chicken thighs into a gallon-sized freezer bag.
Add the Italian dressing, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the bag.
Seal it and gently massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.
Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
When you're ready to cook, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the sheet, skin side up.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
If you like crispier skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some tips for making these Baked Italian Chicken Thighs the best:
Marinate longer: For even more flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the more the chicken will absorb the seasoning.
Crispier skin: If you want extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Adjust the seasoning: If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Leftovers/Storage
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, or microwave in short bursts.
What to Serve with Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
Here are some of our favorites to serve with Baked Italian Chicken Thighs:
Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or broccoli complement the chicken and make for a simple, healthy side.
Rice: A side of fluffy rice or garlic butter rice soaks up the flavorful juices from the chicken.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette goes well with it.
Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side dish with chicken.
Garlic bread: A slice of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover marinade.
Pasta: Serve the chicken alongside a simple pasta with olive oil or marinara for a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
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Baked Italian Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs into a gallon size freezer bag. Add the dressing, garlic, and seasonings to the bag and seal it. Massage the chicken in the bag to evenly distribute the marinade.
- Place in the refrigerator and marinate for at least 2 hours to overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Please note that the nutritional content of this recipe will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a detailed breakdown of the nutritional values, consider using a recipe nutrition calculator with the exact brands and measurements you've used.
