Crispy Chicken Thighs with Aioli

Name: Crispy Chicken Thighs with Aioli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making crispy chicken thighs with aioli for dinner! The combination of tender, juicy chicken and rich, garlicky aioli creates a culinary delight that I can never resist. This recipe is not only easy to follow but yields impressively flavorful results. Whether paired with a fresh salad or served alongside crisp vegetables, this dish never disappoints. I’ve perfected my technique over the years, ensuring that each bite is deliciously satisfying. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:46:28.350Z

When I first ventured into making crispy chicken thighs, I was amazed at how something so simple could yield such satisfying results. It quickly became a go-to meal in my household, not just for weeknights but also when entertaining friends. The secret to the crispiness lies in the seasoning blend and cooking technique, which ensures even cooking and the perfect golden crust.

Another tip I discovered is to let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each piece wonderfully moist. Pairing it with homemade aioli elevates the dish even further, bringing a zesty, creamy element that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with juicy meat
Homemade aioli adds a delicious, garlicky twist
Simple ingredients make dinner prep a breeze

      

Key Techniques for Perfectly Crispy Chicken

Achieving perfectly crispy skin on chicken thighs is all about the preparation and cooking techniques. Be sure to pat your chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness. After seasoning, allowing the chicken to rest for about 15 minutes before baking also helps the skin to dry out, leading to better browning during cooking.

When baking, placing the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet can enhance air circulation around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and crispiness. Elevating the chicken prevents it from stewing in its juices, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully.

Aioli: Customize to Your Taste

While this aioli recipe is simple and delicious, feel free to customize it to suit your palate. You can add additional flavors like a pinch of smoked paprika for depth or even some fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fragrant twist. If you're a fan of heat, consider incorporating a dash of cayenne or a squirt of Sriracha to add some spice.

For a lighter version of aioli, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. This not only reduces the fat content but also adds a tangy flavor that complements the garlic nicely. Remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavor profile.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider pairing these crispy chicken thighs with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts or a vibrant beet salad. The crunchiness of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the fresh, crisp textures of the veggies, making for a well-rounded meal.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore their crispiness. Freezing is also an option; wrap the chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it can last for up to three months.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet skin-side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Make the Aioli

While the chicken is baking, prepare the aioli. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth, then adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with a generous dollop of aioli on the side.

Pro Tips

For even crispier chicken, consider broiling the thighs for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken skin isn't turning out crispy, double-check your oven temperature. An oven that is too cool will cause the skin to not crisp properly; make sure it’s fully preheated to 425°F (220°C) before placing the chicken inside. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can trap moisture. If necessary, bake in batches for the best results.

In case the garlic flavor in the aioli is stronger than expected, balance it by adding a little more mayonnaise or a touch of sugar. This can soften the sharpness without losing the overall flavor. Taste-testing as you go allows you to customize it just right for your preference.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for family gatherings or meal prep. Simply multiply the quantities of chicken and aioli ingredients by the number of servings needed, keeping in mind that you may need to bake in batches. Adjust timing slightly if baking larger quantities, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for doneness.

If you plan to make a larger batch of aioli, remember that it retains freshness for about a week in the fridge. Just ensure it's stored in a tightly sealed container. Consider making a double batch if you're serving guests, as it’s a delicious accompaniment that people always enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so reduce the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

→ What can I serve with crispy chicken thighs?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

→ Can I make aioli in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare aioli up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.