Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!)
There’s something utterly comforting about a well-cooked chicken thigh, especially when it’s seasoned to perfection and baked until the skin is crispy. If you’re looking for a dish that combines ease and flavor, look no further than Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!). This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or whenever you simply crave a delicious meal. Each bite is packed with flavor from the ranch seasoning, and the skin? Well, it’s nothing short of crispy perfection. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
The Upside of Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!)
Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!) are the ideal choice for those who love bold flavors and crispy textures. The best part about this recipe is how straightforward it is—no complicated techniques or fancy equipment needed. With just a few pantry staples and chicken thighs, you can create a meal that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for any home cook.
The combination of baking powder and ranch seasoning creates a wonderfully seasoned crust that locks in moisture, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Plus, chicken thighs are a forgiving cut of meat, ensuring delicious results even for novice chefs. Whether served alongside mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 5 medium chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning (dry ranch seasoning powder, 1 ounce is approximately 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Prep & Cook Tools
- Baking sheet – For baking the chicken and achieving crispy skin.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but helps with easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the seasoning mix.
- Meat thermometer – To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Whisk – For mixing the dry ingredients evenly.
Build Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!) Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the skin crisp up nicely during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. Whisk together until evenly blended.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated. The baking powder helps to create a crispy texture as it bakes.
Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin side up. If using parchment paper, line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you want extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to
Oven Baked Ranch Chicken Thighs (With Crispy Skin!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up nicely.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. Whisk together until evenly blended.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Step 5: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet, skin side up. Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup if desired.
- Step 6: Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Step 7: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the ranch seasoning overnight.
- Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
