When it comes to cooking chicken, there’s no denying that legs and thighs are some of the most versatile and delicious parts to work with. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, these 20 mouth-watering chicken leg and thigh recipes have got you covered.
From classic comfort foods like garlic herb roasted chicken legs and crispy baked chicken thighs, to international inspirations such as Korean fried chicken thighs and Jamaican jerk chicken thighs, we’ve gathered together the most flavorful and easy-to-make recipes that will satisfy any palate. So, go ahead and get creative in the kitchen with these incredible chicken leg and thigh recipes!
Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Legs and Thighs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with tender, juicy legs and thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs and thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken legs and thighs in a large bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic-herb mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, basting occasionally with pan juices.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, these Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the honey-soy glaze all over them.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Paprika
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, smoky legs with a kick of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken legs to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Tips:
– For an extra crispy coating, sprinkle some paprika on top of the chicken before baking.
– If you prefer a less spicy kick, reduce the amount of smoked paprika or omit it altogether.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables!
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Thighs
Get ready to level up your fried chicken game with this spicy and savory recipe inspired by Korean cuisine!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, grated ginger, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the marinade.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Fry the chicken thighs until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Chicken Legs with Rosemary
Elevate your chicken legs with a bright and citrusy twist, featuring the warmth of rosemary and a hint of lemon butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, softened butter, and chopped rosemary.
3. Season the chicken legs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the lemon butter mixture evenly over each chicken leg.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Barbecue Grilled Chicken Thighs
Transform your backyard BBQ with these mouthwatering grilled chicken thighs, slathered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with the marinade mixture.
4. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the chicken with barbecue sauce.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
For an extra crispy crust, finish the chicken under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor!
Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki-inspired dish, topped with crunchy sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Add chicken legs to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil and sesame oil over the chicken.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of each chicken leg.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, basting with pan juices every 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush both sides with the jerk mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sticky Maple Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sticky maple glaze that’s sure to become a family favorite! This easy recipe yields tender, flavorful chicken legs smothered in a sweet and tangy maple syrup glaze.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika (if using). Whisk until smooth.
3. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken legs.
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
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs with Couscous
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs with Couscous Recipe
This recipe brings together the warm and aromatic flavors of Morocco, blending spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika to create a deliciously seasoned chicken dish paired with fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, 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. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook the couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water.
6. Serve the chicken with steamed couscous and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Savory Chicken Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Prepare a comforting and flavorful main course with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken legs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced mushrooms. Cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
5. Add garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken legs to the skillet, spooning some of the mushroom sauce over them. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Thai Red Curry Chicken Thighs
Discover the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple recipe for Thai Red Curry Chicken Thighs. Rich and aromatic, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides.
5. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; let cook, covered, 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted baked chicken legs recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken leg into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each leg.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Comfort Food!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Pour the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the top of the chicken.
3. Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken Legs and Thighs in White Wine Sauce
A classic French-inspired dish that’s both elegant and easy to make, this recipe showcases the rich flavor of white wine paired with succulent chicken legs and thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs and thighs
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Pour in white wine and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the bold flavors of buffalo wings and creamy blue cheese dip. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Blue cheese crumbles for serving (about 1/4 cup per serving)
– Celery sticks or crackers for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the buffalo sauce mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve hot with blue cheese crumbles and celery sticks or crackers on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Style Lemon Oregano Chicken Legs
A bright and zesty twist on traditional chicken legs, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Greece with the comfort of a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs in a single layer.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Herb Butter
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with succulent chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic-herb butter evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs with Roasted Vegetables
Add a smoky twist to classic chicken legs and roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs in Creamy Coconut Curry Sauce
Transform your chicken thighs into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this easy-to-make creamy coconut curry sauce recipe. This Indian-inspired dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut cream, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the curry mixture.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
5. Remove from heat and add the chicken thighs. Tuck the wings under the breasts and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with this collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes featuring chicken legs and thighs! From classic roasted flavors to international twists, these dishes are sure to please. Try Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Legs and Thighs for a simple yet flavorful option, or go bold with Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Thighs. Whether you’re looking for comfort food classics like Sticky Maple Glazed Chicken Legs or something new like Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs with Couscous, this article has got you covered.
