Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and tasty chicken thigh recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From sweet and savory to spicy and smoky, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and exotic, our collection of chicken thigh recipes has got you covered. And the best part? Each recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and stress-free.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile and cooking method. From baked and grilled to sauced and roasted, there’s something for everyone. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of chicken thighs!
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this recipe brings together the richness of honey and garlic to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep and easy cooking, you’ll be enjoying juicy and flavorful chicken thighs in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and honey until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place chicken thighs on the prepared sheet.
4. Brush the top of each chicken thigh with olive oil, then spoon the garlic-honey mixture evenly over the top of each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs
A classic Italian-inspired dish with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying flavorful and satisfying chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and oregano.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken thigh in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your grilling game with this refreshing twist on classic chicken thighs. A zesty lemon-herb marinade brings out the natural flavors of the chicken, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 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
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy and savory chicken thigh recipe. The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich and aromatic glaze that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the gochujang glaze all over them.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Thighs with Spinach
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy chicken dish, featuring tender thighs smothered in a velvety spinach sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs; cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet; spoon sauce over top. Transfer skillet to oven; bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from oven; stir in fresh spinach leaves. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
BBQ Glazed Sticky Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this easy and addictive recipe! Tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich, sticky glaze that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the earthiness of mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy night in, these chicken thighs are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh.
6. Top with sliced mushrooms, dividing them among the thighs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes
A hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, combine chicken thighs, potatoes, onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple
This recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a deliciously balanced dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and top each thigh with fresh pineapple chunks.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until pineapple is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs with Peppers
Savor the rich flavors of smoky paprika as it infuses tender chicken thighs and sweet bell peppers in this easy and aromatic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush the paprika mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place the sliced bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the chicken thighs among the peppers.
5. Drizzle the chicken broth over the dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and sweet recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a tangy mango salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 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, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs with Rosemary
A sweet and savory twist on traditional roasted chicken, this recipe combines the tanginess of balsamic glaze with the earthy flavor of rosemary for a truly memorable dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, rosemary leaves, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs with Rice
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve the chicken over cooked rice and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Mozzarella
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe! Tender chicken thighs filled with a creamy pesto mixture, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Stuff each chicken thigh with about 1-2 tablespoons of the pesto mixture, spreading it evenly along the center of the thigh.
4. Place the stuffed chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each thigh.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner routine with this sweet and savory roasted chicken thighs recipe, featuring the perfect balance of maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to the mixture; stir until combined.
4. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the maple-Dijon glaze evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re all coated.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken Thighs with Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the richness of chicken thighs, all wrapped up in a spicy and aromatic dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Thai red chili sauce (such as Nam Pla)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush with the chili sauce mixture.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped Thai basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Tomato Sauce
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs in Tomato Sauce: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Perfect for a busy day, this recipe yields tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Let your slow cooker do the work while you’re away!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken thighs, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from sauce and serve hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chicken thighs in tomato sauce!
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs with Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, juicy thighs with a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for 20-22 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness and cook an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this bright and flavorful Greek-inspired dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of lemon zest, oregano, garlic, and olive oil creates a savory and aromatic sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to kick up your mealtime with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and creamy blue cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 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 (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together hot sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the buffalo sauce mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, crumble blue cheese into a serving bowl.
7. Serve chicken thighs with blue cheese dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes perfect for busy weeknights! From sweet and savory honey garlic baked thighs to spicy Korean gochujang, these delicious recipes are sure to please. Try crispy parmesan crusted, lemon herb grilled, or creamy Tuscan chicken thighs with spinach. And don’t miss the BBQ glazed sticky, garlic butter with mushrooms, or one-pan roasted thighs with potatoes. With a range of flavors and cooking methods, there’s something for every taste and schedule.