Getting dinner on the table can be a daunting task, especially when you’re short on time. But what if I told you that there’s a solution to your culinary conundrum? Enter: chicken thighs! These versatile and deliciously flavorful pieces of poultry are the perfect answer to your busy weeknight dinner prayers.
From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes to spice up your mealtime routine. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and crunchy or smooth and creamy, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get cooking, and let these savory sensations take center stage on your dinner plate!
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Rosemary
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, these chicken thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 butter, garlic, and rosemary until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and brush the garlic-rosemary butter mixture evenly over each thigh.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this honey soy glazed chicken thighs recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender, caramelized chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Pour water into the dish to come about 1/4 inch up the sides of the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Parmesan
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Parmesan: A Flavorful Twist on Classic Baked Chicken
This recipe is a game-changer for chicken lovers! By marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then topping them with crispy breadcrumbs and melted Parmesan cheese, you’ll achieve a dish that’s both juicy and crunchy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken thighs.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
9. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Yogurt Sauce
Spicy Harissa Chicken Thighs with Yogurt Sauce: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the bold spices of harissa with the tanginess of yogurt, all on top of juicy chicken thighs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup harissa paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush the harissa mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with the yogurt sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs, paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, and heavy cream.
6. Serve chicken with mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the classic Japanese flavors of teriyaki sauce with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and salt.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir well.
6. Serve chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables
Simplify dinner prep with this hearty recipe that combines juicy chicken thighs and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, this one-pan wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from pan; set aside.
5. Add bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Return chicken to the pan and season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs (if using).
7. Roast in the preheated oven for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky and tangy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. While the chicken cooks, mix together chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl. Stir well to combine.
7. Serve the smoky paprika chicken thighs with the tangy chimichurri sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs with Jasmine Rice
This creamy and aromatic dish combines the flavors of coconut, curry, and jasmine rice to create a mouthwatering main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the cooked chicken thighs to the saucepan and coat with the curry sauce.
6. Serve with jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Coleslaw
Satisfy your cravings with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken thighs with a crunchy and creamy coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 2 cups shredded cabbage
+ 1 cup shredded carrots
+ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
+ 1 tsp sugar
+ Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together BBQ sauce ingredients in a separate bowl.
5. Once the chicken is done, brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. For coleslaw, combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (grilling time + preparation)
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken thighs with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in heavy cream, bringing mixture to a simmer. Return chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some sauce on top.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek-Style Chicken Thighs with Tzatziki
Greek-Style Chicken Thighs with Tzatziki Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe for chicken thighs smothered in a zesty tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs 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 refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Serve hot with additional tzatziki sauce on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes
This sweet and savory dish combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and dijon mustard with the comfort of roasted chicken and sweet potatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and dijon mustard.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush the maple-dijon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place sweet potatoes on a separate baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sticky Ginger Chicken Thighs with Bok Choy
This Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken thighs, featuring the sweetness of sticky ginger sauce and the crunch of fresh bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into stems and leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the sticky ginger mixture.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add bok choy stems and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Add bok choy leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
9. Serve chicken with bok choy and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Thighs with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this addictive combination of crispy chicken thighs smothered in spicy buffalo sauce and served with a tangy blue cheese dip.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and melted butter.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
7. Serve buffalo chicken thighs with blue cheese dip for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Elevate your chicken dish with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sun-dried tomato pesto and olive oil.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the pesto mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken Thighs with Quinoa Salad
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of herbed chicken thighs with a refreshing quinoa salad. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the quinoa salad:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese in a bowl.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season to taste.
7. Serve chicken with quinoa salad.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Feta Stuffing
This hearty recipe combines the richness of chicken thighs with the savory flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatics. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each thigh with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four thighs.
5. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil.
6. Place the stuffed chicken thighs in a baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs with Cornbread
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this flavorful and spicy Cajun chicken thighs recipe, served with a warm and crumbly cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle both sides with the spice mixture.
4. Drizzle hot sauce over the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread according to package instructions using buttermilk and melted butter.
7. Serve chicken thighs with warm cornbread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Garlic Alfredo Pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs, garlicky pasta, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a baking dish and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp butter, minced garlic, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and chicken thighs. Pour creamy garlic sauce over the top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 savory chicken thigh recipes! From classic comfort foods to international twists, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or smoky, our collection has it all. Try Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Rosemary, Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs, or Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Parmesan – just to name a few. With a wide range of flavors and cooking methods, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. So why wait? Dive into these delicious recipes and make your weeknights a little more flavorful!
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