Are you a fan of juicy, flavorful chicken thighs? You’re in luck! Chicken thighs are one of the most versatile and delicious cuts of poultry, perfect for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special meal for friends and family, there’s a chicken thigh recipe out there to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey with 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort food to international flavors and modern twists, these dishes showcase the best of what chicken thighs have to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or sweet, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of chicken thigh recipes that are sure to impress.
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs
Sweet and tangy, these Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy weeknight dinner solution. This recipe yields juicy, flavorful chicken with a sticky honey mustard glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the honey mustard mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields crispy, flavorful thighs with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of each thigh.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each thigh.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing recipe, featuring the perfect balance of citrusy lemon and herbaceous flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Chicken Thighs
Elevate your meal with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger, and chili flakes.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with a sweet glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and satisfying recipe featuring crispy chicken thighs smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce. With only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a decadent meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour in heavy cream, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese and thyme evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the deep, smoky heat of smoked paprika. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the aromatic combination of rosemary and thyme. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful thighs perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Thighs with Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying weeknight dinner that’s ready in under an hour. With minimal cleanup and a single pan, it’s perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini.
6. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
7. Add the diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
8. Return the chicken to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cover the skillet with a lid.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Thighs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe features tender chicken thighs smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic jerk seasoning recipe, featuring tender and aromatic chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (see note)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and salt.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and toss with the jerk mixture until evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken thighs! This recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the tender juiciness of slow-cooked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and melted butter.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated with the buffalo mixture.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder and salt to taste over the chicken.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Garlic and White Wine
This classic recipe combines the richness of chicken thighs with the pungency of garlic and the subtlety of white wine, resulting in a deliciously savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Add white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with thyme. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and savory, these Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes are a delightful fall-inspired dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the maple glaze all over them.
4. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
5. Roast both the chicken and sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs in Tomato Basil Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple and delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken thighs with a rich tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, basil leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
6. Pour tomato sauce over chicken thighs and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Lemon Zest
A bright and flavorful twist on classic chicken thighs, this recipe combines the freshness of lemon zest with the savory charm of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 cup lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle lemon zest over the top of each thigh.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with tender, juicy chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and arrange chicken thighs in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Thighs in Coconut Curry Sauce
This recipe combines the comfort of chicken thighs with the creamy warmth of coconut curry sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the garlic, cumin, and curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with the sauce, about 10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Onions and Apples
This recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and sweet apples with juicy chicken thighs, creating a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. To assemble, place a chicken thigh on each plate, top with caramelized onions and apples, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken thigh game! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion. From classic comfort food to international twists and flavorful fusions, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs, or try a new take on BBQ Chicken Thighs with Smoked Paprika. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, sweet, or savory, these recipes will have you cooking up a storm. So go ahead, get creative, and make your taste buds dance!
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