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Chicken thighs are known for their tender, juicy texture and richer flavor compared to other cuts—plus, they’re often more budget-friendly. Whether you prefer them baked, grilled, or simmered in a savory sauce, there’s a wide range of ways to make chicken thighs the star of your dinner plate.
Below, you’ll find 17 delicious chicken thigh recipes to help you explore all their irresistible possibilities.
1. Maple-Dijon Thighs
Whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Coat the chicken before baking for a sweet, tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
2. Honey-Garlic Glazed Thighs
Marinate chicken thighs in a sweet-and-savory mixture of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Bake until the glaze caramelizes, forming a sticky exterior and succulent interior.
3. Lemon-Herb Roasted Thighs
Combine fresh herbs—like rosemary, thyme, or oregano—with lemon juice and olive oil. Roast the chicken thighs until the skin is crispy, and serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
4. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs
Sear seasoned thighs in a skillet, then simmer them in a rich sauce of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and cream. This comforting dish is perfect over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
5. BBQ Chicken Thighs
Coat thighs in your favorite barbecue sauce, then grill or bake until they’re charred on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve with coleslaw or baked beans for a classic cookout vibe.
6. Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Prepare a simple marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Let the chicken soak up the flavors before grilling or baking, then spoon any remaining sauce on top for extra flavor.
7. Coconut Curry Thighs
Simmer chicken thighs in a fragrant sauce of coconut milk, curry paste, onions, and bell peppers. The bold, spicy-sweet flavors pair perfectly with fluffy rice or naan bread.
8. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Sear thighs to a crispy golden brown and then bake them with a garlic-butter mixture. Baste occasionally to lock in the savory flavors, and garnish with fresh parsley.
9. Balsamic & Rosemary Glazed Thighs
A balsamic vinegar reduction blended with rosemary, garlic, and a hint of honey gives these thighs a tangy-sweet kick. Bake or pan-sear until the glaze turns glossy and thick.
10. Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs
Marinate the thighs in a mixture of sweet chili sauce, a touch of soy, and minced ginger. Grill or broil to bring out the sauce’s sweet heat, then top with chopped green onions for garnish.
11. Crispy Italian-Seasoned Thighs
Coat chicken thighs in olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs. Bake until the coating turns golden and crispy, making an easy, family-friendly meal.
12. Chipotle-Lime Chicken Thighs
Spice up dinner with a chipotle-lime marinade that brings smoky heat and zingy citrus. Serve it on a bed of cilantro-lime rice or alongside grilled veggies.
13. One-Pan Tuscan Chicken
Sear thighs with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and onions, then add spinach and a splash of cream to form a velvety sauce. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.
14. Smothered Chicken Thighs
Season and sear the thighs, then slow-cook them in a gravy made from onions, bell peppers, chicken broth, and a little flour for thickening. Perfect over rice or mashed potatoes.
15. Peanut Satay Chicken Thighs
Marinate thighs in a blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of chili. Grill or broil, then drizzle with extra sauce and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
16. Curry-Rubbed Chicken Thighs
Massage chicken thighs with a mix of curry powder, turmeric, garlic, and salt, then roast. The spice blend adds a warm, earthy flavor to the succulent meat.
17. Greek-Style Chicken Thighs
Marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Roast or grill and serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted potatoes.
