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Simple Chicken Thigh Recipe Meal Prep

Simple Chicken Thigh Recipe Meal Prep
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A simple, flavorful, and healthy chicken thigh recipe perfect for meal prep. Juicy and tender baked chicken thighs seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic, and dried herbs, ideal for quick cooking, week-long meals, and versatile serving options.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin on or skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures the skin will crisp up nicely during cooking. Place the thighs in a large bowl.
  2. Season Generously: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and your choice of dried herbs. Toss thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning mixture.
  3. Marinate (Optional): If time allows, cover and refrigerate the seasoned chicken for 30 minutes to an hour to deepen the flavors. This step can be skipped if short on time.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the skin is golden and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest and Portion: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then slice or portion the chicken into meal prep containers as desired.

Notes

  • Use bone-in thighs for more moisture and flavor.
  • Pat chicken dry prior to seasoning for crispier skin.
  • Arrange thighs in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken.
  • Cook sides simultaneously while chicken bakes to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken thighs, meal prep, baked chicken, healthy chicken recipe, simple chicken recipe, gluten free, easy dinner

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/simple-chicken-thigh-recipe-meal-prep/