Are you looking for a delicious way to cook up your turkey thighs? Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of cooking, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering turkey thigh recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic roasted turkey thighs with garlic and herbs to more adventurous options like smoked turkey thighs with apple cider glaze, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting home-cooked meal or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into our top 20 juicy turkey thigh recipes and get cooking!
Garlic Herb Roasted Turkey Thighs
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the tender juiciness of roasted turkey thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on turkey 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. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
3. Place the turkey thighs in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
4. Brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey thighs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Turkey Thighs
Moist and flavorful turkey thighs infused with the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme until smooth.
3. Place turkey thighs in the slow cooker and brush with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
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)
Crispy Baked Turkey Thighs with Lemon and Thyme
Crispy Baked Turkey Thighs with Lemon and Thyme: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional roasted turkey thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Place turkey thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-olive oil mixture evenly over the turkey thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Sprinkle thyme sprigs over the turkey thighs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Turkey Thighs with Apple Cider Glaze
Smoked Turkey Thighs with Apple Cider Glaze Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked turkey thighs with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze, perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider, honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey thighs in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the apple cider glaze all over the turkey thighs.
5. Remove the turkey from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours + 30 minutes
Braised Turkey Thighs in Red Wine Sauce
Rich and flavorful, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Tender turkey thighs fall apart in a rich red wine sauce that’s infused with aromatics and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season turkey thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear turkey thighs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return turkey thighs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until turkey is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Cajun Turkey Thighs with Bell Peppers
Spicy Cajun Turkey Thighs with Bell Peppers: A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional turkey thighs, these bite-sized morsels are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and olive oil.
3. Season turkey thighs with the spice mixture, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear turkey thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer turkey to a baking dish and top each thigh with sliced bell peppers and onion.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until turkey is cooked through and bell peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with minced garlic and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Turkey Thighs with Mushroom Gravy
Savory turkey thighs paired with a rich and earthy mushroom gravy make for a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season turkey thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown turkey thighs for 2-3 minutes per side; transfer to a baking dish.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add onion, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add chicken broth, red wine (if using), and flour. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer gravy for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Serve over turkey thighs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Turkey Thighs with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines juicy turkey thighs with the bright, herby flavors of chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush turkey thighs with olive oil and season with the herb mixture.
4. Grill turkey thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine red wine vinegar and olive oil in a small bowl to make chimichurri sauce.
6. Serve grilled turkey thighs with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Turkey Thighs Stuffed with Spinach and Feta
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish. Tender turkey thighs are stuffed with a delicious mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, then roasted to perfection.
Ingredients:
• 4 turkey thighs
• 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place each turkey thigh on a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving a 1-inch border around the meat.
4. Divide the spinach-feta mixture among the turkey thighs, placing it in the center of each thigh.
5. Fold the turkey skin over the filling, then roll the thighs to seal the filling inside.
6. Place the stuffed turkey thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Turkey Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar with tender turkey thighs, served alongside roasted sweet potatoes. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Place turkey thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Roast for 30 minutes or until cooked through, basting every 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve turkey thighs with roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
One-Pan Turkey Thighs with Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
This hearty one-pan recipe combines the rich flavors of turkey, crispy bacon, and roasted Brussels sprouts for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey thighs
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add the turkey thighs to the same pan and sear for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Add the Brussels sprouts, garlic, and olive oil to the pan. Toss to combine.
6. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are caramelized.
8. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Thighs in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with the tender juiciness of turkey thighs, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add turkey thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for 5 minutes or until browned.
4. Flip turkey thighs and add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until turkey is cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian-Style Turkey Thighs with Soy Ginger Glaze
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory Asian-inspired glaze, featuring the rich flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in turkey thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place turkey thighs in a large baking dish; brush with half of the glaze.
4. Roast for 30 minutes.
5. Brush remaining glaze over turkey; return to oven and roast an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Thighs with Cranberry Orange Sauce
This recipe combines the tender flavor of turkey thighs with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and orange, perfect for a holiday meal or special occasion. The cranberry-orange sauce is made with fresh ingredients and no added sugars.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, season turkey thighs with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake turkey thighs for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve turkey thighs with warm cranberry-orange sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Barbecue Turkey Thighs with Homemade BBQ Sauce
Transform your turkey thighs into a mouth-watering barbecue delight, smothered in a tangy and sweet homemade BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place turkey thighs in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil and brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over both sides of the turkey.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Turkey Thighs with Rosemary and Garlic Butter
This recipe combines the rich flavor of turkey thighs with the aromatic goodness of rosemary and garlic butter, creating a mouthwatering main course. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 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 butter, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place turkey thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the garlic-rosemary butter evenly over the turkey.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Thighs in Creamy Mushroom and White Wine Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting dish, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion. Tender turkey thighs are smothered in a creamy mushroom and white wine sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add turkey thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove turkey from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onion. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Add white wine and bring to a simmer; cook until reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and thyme. Return turkey thighs to the skillet and spoon sauce over them.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Turkey Thighs with Lemon Garlic Butter and Asparagus
This recipe combines the rich flavor of turkey thighs with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic butter, and the crunch of asparagus for a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, and butter until well combined.
3. Place the turkey thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh.
4. Toss the asparagus with salt and pepper to taste. Spread it out in a single layer around the turkey.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Thighs with Balsamic Glaze and Caramelized Onions
Elevate your turkey game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze, caramelized onions, and tender turkey thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 turkey thighs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, season turkey thighs with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add turkey thighs and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While turkey is cooking, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve turkey thighs with caramelized onions and spoon some of the balsamic glaze on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Turkey Thighs in Tomato Basil Cream Sauce
A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the tender juiciness of turkey thighs with the sweetness of tomato sauce, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in turkey thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown turkey thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking dish.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour the sauce over the turkey thighs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these mouthwatering turkey thigh recipes! From classic roasted thighs to bold and spicy options, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic herb roasted turkey thighs, slow cooker honey mustard thighs, or crispy baked thighs with lemon and thyme. If you’re looking for a little sweetness, maple glazed thighs with sweet potatoes are a winner. And if you want to spice things up, try smoked turkey thighs with apple cider glaze or spicy Cajun thighs with bell peppers. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you!