These Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The blend of fresh garlic, rosemary, sage, and garlic powder infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors. A simple and classic chicken recipe that everyone will love, this dish is easy to prepare and always delivers fantastic results. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or a special occasion, these roasted chicken thighs are sure to impress.

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful, crispy chicken that’s packed with savory goodness. The garlic and herbs give the chicken an aromatic punch, while the skin becomes beautifully crisp during baking. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, yet satisfying meal, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs with bone & skin
4-5 garlic cloves, peeled and slightly pressed so the flavors release
½ teaspoon sage (dried or fresh), chopped
¾ teaspoon rosemary (dried or fresh), chopped
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken thighs. Place the thighs in a baking pan, skin side up. Sprinkle the top of the thighs with garlic powder and chopped sage and rosemary. Arrange the garlic cloves around the chicken.
Bake: Place the baking pan in the center rack of the oven. Roast the chicken uncovered for 45 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and cook for an additional 10 minutes. The internal temperature of the chicken thighs should reach 165°F (75°C), and the skin should be golden and crispy.
Keep Warm: To keep the chicken thighs warm before serving, turn off the oven and cover them with foil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 chicken thighs
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Herb Variations: Feel free to customize the herbs based on your preferences. You can use thyme, oregano, or an Italian seasoning blend. For a more exotic flavor, try adding turmeric or herbs de Provence.
Citrus Addition: For a bright pop of flavor, add orange or lemon zest and juice to the chicken thighs before baking.
Garlic Variations: You can use more or less garlic depending on how garlicky you want the chicken to be. Adding roasted garlic cloves or garlic powder gives a unique depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover roasted chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crisp again. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 2-3 minutes, though the skin may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time may be slightly reduced. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.

2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, dried herbs work just as well in this recipe. Use about 1/3 of the amount if using dried herbs compared to fresh herbs.

3. How do I get the chicken skin crispy?

Roasting the chicken skin side up at a high temperature initially helps achieve that crispy skin. Make sure not to cover the chicken during baking, as the skin needs direct heat to become crispy.

4. Can I marinate the chicken before roasting?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken with the garlic and herbs for 30 minutes to 2 hours before roasting. This can help intensify the flavors.

5. What sides go well with garlic herb roasted chicken thighs?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

6. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to dry out faster than thighs. If you prefer chicken breasts, be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully and remove them once they reach 165°F.

7. Can I make this recipe in advance?

This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken thighs with the seasoning and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking.

8. Can I freeze roasted chicken thighs?

Roasted chicken thighs can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

9. What can I do if I don’t have a baking pan?

If you don’t have a baking pan, you can use a rimmed baking sheet or a cast-iron skillet. Just be sure the chicken is arranged in a single layer for even cooking.

10. How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. The skin should also be golden and crispy.

Conclusion

These Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With a crisp, golden exterior and tender, juicy meat on the inside, they make for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!