Are you tired of serving up the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering and flavorful chicken thigh recipes that are sure to spice up your meal routine. From classic comfort foods to international twists, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to share with you.
In this article, we’ll be diving into a world of juicy, crispy, and succulent chicken thighs that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are designed to bring out the best in your cooking skills. So grab your apron, sharpen those knives, and get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride!
Stay tuned for our top picks for the most delicious and easy-to-make chicken thigh recipes that will make your mouth water. From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, we’ve got something for everyone.
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey and garlic with the tender juiciness of baked chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering recipe that yields crispy and juicy oven-fried chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs.
6. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each thigh.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bright and citrusy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken thighs, this recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang paste with crispy skin and juicy meat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chicken broth, water, and sesame oil.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before baking.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this rich and flavorful recipe featuring chicken thighs smothered in a creamy Tuscan sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the sauce.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Glazed Sticky Chicken Thighs
A sweet and tangy twist on classic BBQ chicken, these sticky thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The combination of brown sugar, honey, and vinegar creates a rich, caramelized glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken thighs on the sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, basting with pan juices every 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple yet indulgent recipe for Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken Thighs. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying crispy, cheesy chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil on the chicken and sprinkle with garlic butter mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut milk, fragrant Thai spices, and tender chicken thighs for a dish that’s both exotic and comforting. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and water; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this bold and aromatic recipe, featuring smoky paprika as the star of the show.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. If using, place the lemon quarters on top of the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Mustard Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring maple-glazed chicken thighs infused with the tanginess of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful one-pan wonder! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; add lemon slices, black pepper, paprika, and salt to the pan.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Return the chicken to the pan and spoon some of the sauce over each thigh.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken dinner with this sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. This easy recipe yields juicy, flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a rich, syrupy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze on both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs
Savor the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this easy-to-make recipe for Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush both sides with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Note: Jerk seasoning is a blend of spices that can be found at most grocery stores. If you can’t find it, make your own by mixing together ingredients like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and scotch bonnet peppers.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Thighs: Sweet and savory, this dish combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger to create a mouth-watering meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic with tender roasted chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re coated but not soggy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with a crispy blackening crust, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken thighs that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the chicken thighs evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Heat 1 tbsp of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with additional butter if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
Moist and flavorful chicken thighs are elevated by a tangy Greek yogurt marinade, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. This recipe yields juicy and aromatic results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Note: You can also grill the chicken thighs on medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Slow Cooker Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and spicy slow cooker recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a sticky honey Sriracha glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. In a slow cooker, mix together the honey, Sriracha sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker, making sure they’re coated in the glaze.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 18 mouth-watering best chicken thigh recipes! From classic flavors like honey garlic and crispy oven-fried, to international twists like spicy Korean gochujang and Thai coconut curry, there’s something for every taste bud. Try creamy Tuscan garlic, BBQ glazed sticky, or smoky paprika roasted – the possibilities are endless!
