Add salt and pepper to the chicken thighs, and then season them. Within a large skillet, bring the olive oil to a temperature of medium-high. Cook the chicken thighs until they are golden brown, about five minutes per side, making sure to add them with the skin side down. Take the food out of the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté it for about three minutes, or until it has become more tender. For a further minute, add minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you are using them), and continue to cook until the aroma is released.