1-First Step: Get the oven and pan ready Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with foil and set it aside. A rimmed baking sheet works best because it catches the juices and keeps cleanup easy. If you have a wire rack, you can place it on top of the baking sheet for even more airflow, but the recipe also works well directly on the foil-lined pan.

2-Second Step: Dry the chicken well Remove the chicken thighs from the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. This step matters more than people think. Dry skin turns crisp faster, while wet skin steams in the oven and stays soft. If the chicken is extra damp, use a few paper towels until the surface feels dry.

3-Third Step: Arrange and oil the thighs Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Leave a little space between each piece so the hot air can move around them. Drizzle the chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then rub the oil all over the thighs so every surface is coated. This helps the skin brown and gives the spices something to cling to.

4-Fourth Step: Mix the seasoning In a small bowl, stir together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix well so the flavors are evenly combined. Then sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken thighs as evenly as you can. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure each piece gets a good coating.

5-Fifth Step: Bake without moving the chicken Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. Do not move or turn the chicken during the baking time. Letting it sit undisturbed helps the skin crisp up and keeps the coating in place. If your thighs are on the smaller side, start checking closer to 35 minutes. Larger thighs may need the full time or a little more.

6-Final Step: Check for doneness and serve Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F before eating. The safest way to check is with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. Once they are done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes so the juices settle back into the meat. Then serve hot with your favorite sides.