How to Make Ranch Chicken Thighs in 40 Minutes

Hey there, fellow home cooks! Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dinner idea? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m sharing my secret recipe for Ranch Chicken Thighs that’s ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something flavorful without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great addition to your collection of quick family dinners and weeknight dinner ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 40 minutes, perfect for 30-minute meals
• Crispy, flavorful, and juicy chicken thighs
• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand
• Great for weeknight dinner ideas or weekend gatherings
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this easy recipe:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the simple steps to make these delicious Ranch Chicken Thighs:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and place them in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub to coat evenly.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, pepper, and a pinch of salt.
5. Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken, massaging it into the skin and meat for full flavor.
6. Arrange the thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Ranch Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time:

• Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin, so don’t skip this step!
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy and tender.
• For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

How to Serve

These Ranch Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• A fresh green salad
• Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes
• Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella Bites
• Bruschetta Dip

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparation and storage tips:

• Prep ahead: Season the chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
• Storage: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

There you have it—a simple, flavorful, and quick recipe for Ranch Chicken Thighs that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for easy pasta recipes, 30-minute meals, or just a tasty weeknight dinner idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try and let me know what you think!