Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re counting down our top 21 recipes for chicken thighs and legs that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From sweet and sticky glazes to savory and spicy sauces, we’ve got a recipe to match your mood and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
From classic comfort foods like honey garlic glazed chicken thighs and crispy baked chicken legs with herbs, to international flavors like spicy Korean fried chicken thighs and Thai coconut curry chicken thighs, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the delicious possibilities of chicken thighs and legs!
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sticky and flavorful recipe! This honey garlic glazed chicken is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey glaze all over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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
Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that yields crispy, juicy, and aromatic legs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Thighs
Elevate your fried chicken game with this spicy Korean-inspired recipe, featuring crispy thighs smothered in a bold and zesty sauce. Perfect for a snack or main course, these spicy treats will satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Gochujang Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and gochugaru.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry coated thighs in hot oil (350°F) for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Spicy Gochujang Sauce (see below).
Spicy Gochujang Sauce:
– 1/2 cup gochujang paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth.
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken thighs recipe, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 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, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Grilled Chicken Legs
Get ready to fire up your grill and serve up tender, juicy chicken legs smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the chicken legs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the BBQ sauce evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of Thai red curry paste, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 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 curry paste, coconut milk, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these garlic parmesan chicken legs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken leg into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Paprika Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the rich smokiness of paprika with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
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. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken thighs on the sheet, skin side up.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle the paprika mixture evenly over each thigh.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Thighs with Mango Salsa
This Caribbean-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of mango salsa, creating a delicious and exotic dish perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and preparation, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful chicken thighs with a tangy and fruity twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa ingredients:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1 lime, juiced
+ 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the jerk mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango salsa ingredients in a separate bowl.
7. Serve chicken thighs with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and the piney goodness of rosemary. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these roasted chicken legs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken legs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken legs and toss to coat.
6. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe. Sweet and savory, it’s a perfect combination for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken Legs with Lemon and Thyme
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon with the earthy warmth of thyme. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 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 lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken legs in a single layer in a baking dish. Brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken thighs with a creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Transfer the mushroom mixture to a baking dish. Arrange chicken thighs on top.
6. Pour heavy cream over the chicken and mushrooms. Cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Legs
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Legs Recipe: A Fiery Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken legs
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and toss with the spicy mixture until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy cleanup. Arrange chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Chicken Thighs with Rice and Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 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 diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the uncooked rice, water, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, featuring succulent chicken thighs smothered in a tangy and herby Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 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 bowl, whisk together parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While grilling, brush the chimichurri sauce on the chicken during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken Legs with Buttermilk Marinade
Elevate your fried chicken game with this recipe that combines the tanginess of buttermilk marinade and crispy fried coating. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a party snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken legs in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and wilted spinach for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the tomato-spinach mixture over the chicken thighs and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sticky Soy Glazed Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the richness of soy sauce with the sweetness of honey to create a sticky glaze that’s perfect for chicken legs. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir until well combined.
4. Place chicken legs in a large baking dish; brush the glaze all over them.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sticky glaze is caramelized.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Garlic and Herb Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Sprinkle parsley and thyme over the top of each thigh.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Chicken Legs with Root Vegetables
A flavorful and hearty dish that combines the richness of roasted chicken legs with the natural sweetness of root vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, sweet potato, red onion, and garlic.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken legs on top of the vegetable mixture in a single layer.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 21 mouth-watering recipes featuring chicken thighs and legs! From sweet and sticky honey garlic glazed thighs to spicy Korean fried chicken, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Try crispy baked legs with herbs, smoky paprika thighs, or BBQ grilled legs for a classic twist. Or, go global with teriyaki glaze, Thai coconut curry, or jerk chicken with mango salsa. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with these exciting recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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