Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes that are perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. From sweet and savory to spicy and smoky, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and classic or adventurous and exotic, our collection of chicken thigh recipes has got you covered. With options ranging from simple baked chicken thighs to slow cooker stews and saucy pan-seared delights, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 favorite chicken thigh recipes, each one a perfect blend of flavor and ease. So why wait? Dive in and start cooking up some delicious weeknight dinners with these juicy chicken thigh meat recipes!
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, these Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the garlic-honey mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Herbs
Crispy Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs with Herbs Recipe
A classic recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Crispy pan-searing brings out the natural sweetness of chicken thighs, while fresh herbs add a bright and savory note.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, BBQ sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Brush the BBQ mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your summer with this zesty and flavorful recipe! This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste, with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs. The result is a spicy, sweet, and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions 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, and ginger.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush with chicken broth and water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and satisfying dish, where tender chicken thighs are smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear chicken thighs until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Pour sauce over chicken thighs and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs with Sesame Seeds
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of Japan with a crispy sesame seed crust. This teriyaki glazed chicken thighs dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each thigh, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Thighs with Rice and Vegetables
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines chicken thighs, rice, and mixed vegetables for a hearty meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, rice, and frozen vegetables to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chicken back into the pot and pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Spinach
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic chicken thighs, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the nutritional benefits of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and 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. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Top each chicken thigh with a handful of fresh spinach leaves.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and spinach is wilted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs with Rosemary
Elevate your chicken dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the earthiness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add chopped rosemary and let it infuse for 5 minutes.
4. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken in a baking dish and brush with the balsamic glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Serve with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
A delicious and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines crispy chicken thighs, tender potatoes, and colorful carrots, all cooked to perfection on a single sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 1 bunch of fresh carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Add the potatoes and carrots to the same bowl and toss to combine with the chicken.
5. Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs Adobo with Coconut Milk
This Filipino-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of adobo sauce with the creamy richness of coconut milk, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, combine chicken thighs, coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Paprika Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the deep, smoky heat of paprika. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 0.5 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
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. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle the paprika mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Dijon Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, creamy Dijon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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 thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer.
6. Return chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai Red Curry Chicken Thighs with Basil
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful Thai-inspired dish featuring succulent chicken thighs smothered in a spicy and aromatic red curry sauce, finished with fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned on both sides (5-6 minutes per side).
5. Pour in coconut milk mixture (coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and brown sugar); bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves; serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and flavorful recipe for chicken thighs smothered in a zesty lemon caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is cooking, combine lemon juice, capers, salt, and pepper in the same skillet used earlier.
7. Simmer sauce over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve chicken with lemon caper sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs with Mango Salsa
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Caribbean-inspired dish, where the bold spices of jerk seasoning meet the sweetness of juicy mango.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For Mango Salsa:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ Juice of 1 lime
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and olive oil.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from refrigerator and cook for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve jerk chicken thighs with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe! Crunchy Parmesan crust and juicy chicken thighs come together to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and oregano.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken thigh into the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Peppers and Onions
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Place the sliced onions and bell peppers in a separate baking dish.
5. Arrange the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Feta
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken thighs, these Mediterranean-inspired stuffed breasts are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tangy feta cheese, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each thigh with the feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four pieces.
5. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try honey-glazed baked thighs, crispy pan-seared thighs with herbs, or slow-cooked BBQ thighs that fall-off-the-bone tender. Or, spice things up with spicy Korean gochujang chicken or smoky paprika roasted thighs. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy mushroom sauce or tangy lemon caper sauce, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
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