Baked Italian Chicken Thighs Recipe
These juicy, flavorful Italian Baked Chicken Thighs are marinated in Italian dressing, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until golden and crispy. Perfect for a simple, satisfying dinner everyone will love.
Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 480kcal
Ingredients
- 6 Bone-In-Skin-On Chicken Thighs
- 1 Cup Italian Dressing see below to make your own
- 3 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add the Italian dressing, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and massage the chicken to evenly distribute the marinade.
- Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- For crispier skin, place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For boneless thighs, reduce the baking time by 5–7 minutes.
A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure doneness (165°F).
Leftovers work great in wraps, salads, or with roasted vegetables.
I counted ½ cup of Italian Dressing in the nutritional information (from being absorbed in the marinade). Your results may vary.
Homemade Italian Dressing
Ingredients
- ½ Cup Olive Oil
- ¼ Cup White Wine Vinegar (or Red Wine Vinegar)
- 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice (fresh is best)
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ½ Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Onion Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Salt
- ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- ¼ Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 Teaspoon Dijon Mustard (optional, helps emulsify)
- 1–2 Teaspoons Honey or Low-Carb Sweetener (optional, balances acidity)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a mason jar or small bowl.
- Shake well (if using a jar with a lid) or whisk until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more lemon juice, sweetener, or salt if needed.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake well before each use.
- If using it as the marinade for this recipe, use the entire recipe as the marinade.
Nutrition
Serving: 1Thigh | Calories: 480kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 37g