Oven Fried Chicken thighs

This post contains affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

If you love fried chicken but want something healthier, quicker, and less messy, these Oven Fried Chicken Thighs are for you! Juicy chicken thighs are coated in our Avocado Oil Mayonnaise and Sourdough Breadcrumbs for a tender, crunchy, oven fried chicken the whole family will love.

When I was a kid, I was a chicken nugget junkie (weren't we all?). I wasn't super picky about where the chicken nuggets came from (except McDonald's. Bleck.), just so long as they were crunchy, I was good. The notion of eating chicken without a crunchy coating was not my jam.

But as I got older, I realized chicken nuggets weren't all that good for me. Chicken of questionable quality rolled in MSG and fried in seed oils is hard on the hormones and waistline.

But what if there was a way to enjoy all the best parts of chicken nuggets in a grown-up version that won't torpedo your health? Is that a thing?

"Healthy fried chicken isn't a thing," you say. "Stand down."

I will not stand down.

I will stand up and present to you Oven Fried Chicken Thighs. Not coated in milk and flour, but heart-healthy, hormone-supporting avocado oil mayo and sourdough breadcrumbs for the most magnificent chicken dinner you've ever had.

"That doesn't sound like any oven fried chicken thighs I've ever had," you say.

You're exactly right. Let me show you how it's done.

Why You'll Love These Oven Fried Chicken Thighs

• Crispy, golden coating without deep frying makes these oven fried chicken thighs healthier (and more delicious) than traditional deep-fried chicken thighs.
• Juicy, flavorful chicken every time, thanks to the combination of avocado oil and tender chicken thighs.
• Made with avocado oil mayo and sourdough breadcrumbs for an extra-nutritious, tangy dish.
• An easy oven method that uses one skillet for minimal cleanup.
• Family-friendly and great for weeknight dinners!
• Kid-friendly because they resemble a great big chicken nugget. Mom score!

What Makes These Truly Oven Fried

These oven fried chicken thighs are cooked in a hot cast-iron skillet and high oven heat to mimic the results of traditional frying. Preheating the pan helps the coating crisp quickly while the oven finishes cooking the chicken evenly, no flipping, splattering oil, or standing over the stove required! This is especially helpful if you have littles by your feet because, undoubtedly, the oil will pop them right in the eye.

Ingredients You'll Need for Oven Fried Chicken Thighs

This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and forgiving, perfect for oven frying!
• Avocado oil mayo: Helps the breading stick and keeps the chicken moist. You can substitute any mayo you prefer.
• Dijon mustard: Adds flavor and depth to the coating
• Seasonings: Onion powder, garlic powder, and salt
• Sourdough breadcrumbs: Create a crunchy, flavorful crust. You can substitute regular breadcrumbs or panko if you prefer.

How to Make Oven Fried Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Coating. In a shallow bowl, stir together the avocado oil mayo, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken. Coat both sides of the chicken thighs evenly in the mayo mixture, then press into the sourdough breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 3: Preheat. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat and allow it to preheat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil to the skillet and give it a minute to heat up.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken. Carefully place the breaded chicken thighs into the skillet in a single layer.

Step 5: Bake. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the coating is golden and crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

Step 6: Serve. Remove the pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Extra Crispy Oven Fried Chicken

• Preheat the skillet fully before adding the chicken. This helps the chicken crisp on the bottom and prevents the breading from sticking to the skillet.
• Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken so they coat evenly.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan so the chicken doesn't get soggy.
• Let the chicken rest briefly to set the crust and allow the chicken to reabsorb its juices.

Variations & Substitutions

• Skin-on thighs: Bake until skin is crispy and internal temperature is reached.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Air fryer: Cook at 380°F until crispy and cooked through.

How to Store and Reheat Oven Fried Chicken Thighs

Storing: Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, place a paper towel under the chicken to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing: While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating (Best Methods):

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, until hot and crispy. Place on a wire rack or directly in a skillet for best results.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 370°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp.

Avoid Microwaving: The microwave will soften the coating and reduce crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought mayo or breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Homemade avocado oil mayo and sourdough breadcrumbs provide the best flavor and texture, but you can use any mayo and breadcrumbs that are convenient for you.

How do I know when chicken thighs are done?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make oven fried chicken thighs ahead of time?

They're best fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer. To save time, you can coat the chicken in mayo and breadcrumbs in the morning, then cover and refrigerate until you are ready to cook.

You're going to Love These Oven Fried Chicken Thighs!

Whether you are a recovering chicken nugget junkie, or just a mom trying to get a nutritious dinner on the table, you are going to fall in love with these oven fried chicken thighs. They're juicy, crunchy, and full of delicious, tangy flavor from avocado oil mayo and sourdough breadcrumbs. Go ahead and add this to your monthly meal rotation! Your family will thank you. Happy baking!

Check out These Cottage Favorites: