Chicken thighs are a tasty and budget-friendly option for many meals. They’re juicy, flavorful, and easy to cook.

You can prepare them in lots of different ways, from simple stovetop recipes to fancy oven-baked dishes.

These recipes will give you new ideas for cooking chicken thighs. You’ll find options for various cuisines and cooking methods.

Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, there’s a chicken thigh recipe that fits the bill.

1. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic butter chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dish you can make at home. You’ll need chicken thighs, butter, garlic, and some herbs.

To make this dish, melt butter and mix it with minced garlic. Coat the chicken thighs in this mixture.

Place the coated thighs in a baking dish. Cook them in the oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through.

The result is juicy chicken with crispy skin and a rich garlic flavor. This meal goes well with many side dishes like vegetables or rice.

2. Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Honey soy baked chicken thighs are a tasty and simple meal. You’ll love the sweet and savory flavors in this dish.

To make these, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and let them soak up the flavors for at least an hour.

Bake the chicken at 425°F for 20-25 minutes. Turn the pieces a few times while cooking to keep them juicy. For crispy edges, broil for 5 minutes at the end.

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving. This ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

3. Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs

Spicy grilled chicken thighs are a tasty summer dish. You can make them easily at home with a flavorful marinade.

Mix spices like paprika, cayenne, and black pepper with oil and herbs. Coat the chicken thighs and let them marinate for 2-3 hours or overnight.

Grill the thighs over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. Make sure the juices run clear when you pierce the thickest part.

These spicy thighs go well with many sides. Try them with a cool salad or grilled veggies for a full meal.

You can adjust the spice level to your taste. Add more cayenne for extra heat or use milder spices for less kick.

4. Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs

Herb-crusted chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dinner option. You can make them with common pantry herbs and spices.

Mix minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley in a small bowl. Rub olive oil on the chicken thighs, then coat them with the herb mix.

Heat an oven-safe skillet and sear the chicken to get crispy skin. Finish cooking the thighs in the oven until they reach 165°F inside.

The herbs create a flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the meat juicy. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a full meal.

5. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs

Creamy mushroom chicken thighs are a tasty dinner option you can make in about 30 minutes. You start by browning seasoned chicken thighs in a skillet until the skin is crispy.

Then you cook mushrooms and garlic in the same pan. A creamy sauce is made with white wine, herbs, and cream or milk. The chicken goes back in to simmer in the sauce.

This dish is rich and flavorful. You can serve it over rice or pasta to soak up the sauce. It’s an easy way to turn affordable chicken thighs into a special meal.

6. Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

Lemon herb roasted chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dish you can make in about 30 minutes. The mix of lemon and herbs gives the chicken a bright, fresh flavor.

To make this dish, you’ll need bone-in chicken thighs, lemon zest, and your choice of herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. Pat the chicken dry and season it with salt and pepper.

Mix the lemon zest and herbs with some olive oil. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.

Place them on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven until the skin is crispy and golden.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep the meat juicy. You can serve the chicken thighs with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over top.

7. Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Teriyaki chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dish you can make at home. You’ll need chicken thighs and teriyaki sauce.

To prepare, marinate the thighs in teriyaki sauce for extra flavor. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own.

Cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven. For oven-baking, place the thighs on a lined baking sheet and brush with sauce.

Bake at 375°F (190°C), turning once and brushing with more sauce. Cook until the chicken is done.

Serve your teriyaki chicken thighs with rice and steamed veggies for a complete meal.

8. BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs

BBQ glazed chicken thighs are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them in your oven with just a few steps.

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry. Rub them with olive oil and spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder.

Place the seasoned thighs on a baking sheet. Cook them in a 375°F oven for about 25 minutes.

While they bake, mix up a sweet and tangy glaze. Use ingredients like honey, BBQ sauce, and vinegar.

Brush half the glaze on the chicken. Broil for 1-2 minutes until it browns. Flip the thighs, add more glaze, and broil again.

Your BBQ glazed chicken thighs are ready when they reach 165°F inside. Serve them with extra sauce on the side.

9. Bourbon Molasses Chicken Thighs

Bourbon molasses chicken thighs offer a tasty twist on classic chicken dishes. The rich flavors of bourbon and molasses create a sweet and smoky glaze.

To make this recipe, you’ll need chicken thighs, bourbon, molasses, ketchup, and spices. Mix these ingredients to create a flavorful sauce.

Marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight. This helps the meat absorb the flavors.

Grill or bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste the thighs with extra sauce while cooking for more flavor.

The result is juicy chicken with a caramelized exterior. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.

10. Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Crispy baked chicken thighs are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them with bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and texture.

The skin gets crispy in the oven, while the meat stays juicy. A simple spice mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme adds lots of flavor.

To make these, you just need to season the chicken and pop it in the oven. It’s that simple!

The thighs cook for about 35-40 minutes at 400°F.

You can serve these crispy thighs with many sides. Try them with roasted veggies, a salad, or mac and cheese for a full meal.

11. Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs

Maple Dijon chicken thighs offer a tasty mix of sweet and tangy flavors. You’ll need bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best results.

The sauce combines maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar. Make sure to use 100% pure maple syrup for the richest taste.

Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors soak into the meat.

Bake the chicken thighs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until cooked through. The skin will get crispy while the meat stays juicy.

This recipe is quick to prepare, taking only about 10 minutes to set up. Then you can relax while it cooks for around 40 minutes.

12. Tangy Apricot Chicken Thighs

This recipe combines sweet apricots with savory chicken thighs for a tasty meal. You’ll start by marinating the chicken in a mix of apricot preserves, soy sauce, and spices.

After marinating, you’ll bake the chicken thighs in the oven. As they cook, the apricot glaze caramelizes, creating a sticky, flavorful coating.

The dish pairs well with rice and green vegetables. You can adjust the sweetness by using more or less apricot preserves. For extra tang, try adding a splash of vinegar to the glaze.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The sweet and savory flavors will please both kids and adults.

13. Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs

You’ll love this flavorful dish that brings Thai-inspired flavors to your kitchen.

Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Remove the chicken and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in the same pan.

Pour in coconut milk and curry paste, stirring to combine. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer until cooked through.

For extra flavor, toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.

Serve your Thai coconut curry chicken thighs over rice for a satisfying meal. The creamy coconut sauce pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken.

14. Pineapple Jerk Chicken Thighs

Pineapple jerk chicken thighs bring Caribbean flavors to your kitchen.

Start by marinating the chicken in a spicy jerk seasoning mixed with pineapple juice. This blend gives the meat a tangy kick.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F.

Place the marinated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cook for about 35-45 minutes until golden brown.

For extra flavor, brush the chicken with more jerk sauce during cooking.

Add fresh pineapple chunks to the pan in the last 15 minutes of cooking. The fruit will caramelize and complement the spicy chicken perfectly.

15. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Thighs

Mediterranean grilled chicken thighs offer a tasty and healthy meal option.

To make them, marinate the chicken in a mix of herbs, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.

Grill the thighs over medium-high heat for about 7-10 minutes per side if boneless, or 15-25 minutes for bone-in pieces.

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve your grilled chicken with a dill yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables like eggplant.

For a complete meal, add a Mediterranean breakfast board with fresh fruits, nuts, and cheeses. This combination makes a great option for feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner.

16. Pesto Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Pesto Parmesan chicken thighs offer a tasty twist on classic Italian flavors. You’ll love how easy this dish is to make.

Start by coating chicken thighs with pesto. Press a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese onto the chicken.

Bake the coated thighs in a preheated oven for about 20 minutes. The result is juicy chicken with a crunchy, flavorful crust.

This recipe works well with both boneless and bone-in thighs. For extra flavor, try using homemade pesto.

Serve your pesto Parmesan chicken thighs with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

17. Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

Sweet chili lime chicken thighs are a tasty and easy meal. You need just a few ingredients to make this flavorful dish.

Mix sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and zest for the marinade. Add the chicken thighs and let them soak up the flavors.

Bake the chicken in the oven until it’s cooked through. The sweet and spicy glaze will caramelize, creating a sticky coating.

Serve these chicken thighs with rice or noodles. Add some stir-fried veggies on the side for a complete meal.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious.

18. Sriracha Honey Chicken Thighs

Sriracha honey chicken thighs offer a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. You’ll love how easy they are to make.

Mix honey and sriracha sauce to create a tasty marinade. Adjust the ratio to suit your spice preference.

Coat boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the marinade. Let them sit for 30 minutes in the fridge.

Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for about 15 minutes per side. This creates a nice brown crust.

Finish cooking the thighs in the oven until they reach the proper temperature. Let them rest before serving.

19. Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Lemon garlic butter chicken thighs are a tasty and simple meal you can make in your kitchen. The dish combines tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich butter to create a flavorful sauce.

You can cook these chicken thighs in a pan or bake them in the oven. The skin gets crispy while the meat stays juicy inside.

To make this dish, you’ll need chicken thighs, lemon juice, garlic, butter, and some herbs like thyme or oregano.

Season the chicken, cook it until golden, then add the other ingredients to make the sauce.

This recipe works well for a weeknight dinner or when you have guests. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

20. Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs

Buttermilk fried chicken thighs are a tasty and juicy dish. You’ll love the crispy coating and tender meat.

To make them, soak chicken thighs in buttermilk with spices. This helps tenderize the meat and add flavor.

Mix flour with seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated chicken in this mixture.

Fry the coated thighs in hot oil until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Let the chicken cool on a wire rack. This keeps the outside crispy. Serve your buttermilk fried chicken thighs hot for the best taste and texture.

21. Ginger Scallion Chicken Thighs

Ginger scallion chicken thighs offer a tasty twist on your usual chicken dinner. You’ll love the mix of fresh ginger and green onions that give this dish its unique flavor.

Start by seasoning chicken thighs with salt. Brown them in a pan skin-side down.

Mix minced garlic, julienned ginger, and sliced scallions for the sauce.

Pour the ginger-scallion mix over the browned chicken. Add a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

Bake the chicken in the oven at 350°F until it’s cooked through.

Serve your ginger scallion chicken thighs over rice or noodles. Add some steamed veggies on the side for a complete meal. This dish is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

22. Orange Sesame Chicken Thighs

Orange sesame chicken thighs are a tasty and simple meal. You can cook them in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot.

The dish uses chicken thighs, orange juice, honey, and sesame oil. Other ingredients include garlic, coconut aminos, and spices.

To make the sauce, mix orange juice, soy sauce, and honey. Add ginger for extra flavor. Cook the chicken until it’s tender and falling off the bone.

For a crispy finish, you can roast the chicken thighs in the oven. Coat them with arrowroot or cornstarch and black sesame seeds before baking.

Serve your orange sesame chicken thighs with rice and veggies for a full meal.

23. Italian Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

Italian herb roasted chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dinner option. You’ll love how the herbs bring out the rich flavors of the chicken.

To make this dish, rub chicken thighs with olive oil and a mix of Italian herbs. Use garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Roast the chicken in a 400°F oven until the skin is crispy and golden. The inside will stay juicy and tender.

For extra flavor, add some roasted vegetables like potatoes or peppers to the pan. The veggies will soak up the delicious chicken juices as they cook.

This easy meal is perfect for family dinners or when you have guests over. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

24. Paprika-Crusted Chicken Thighs

Paprika-crusted chicken thighs are a tasty and simple dinner option. To make them, mix paprika with other spices like garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Coat your chicken thighs in this spice blend. Then, dip them in flour and panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Bake the coated thighs in a 375°F oven for about 35-40 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The result is juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust. Serve these thighs with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.

25. Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a tasty and easy dinner option. You can make them in the oven or on the stovetop.

To start, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown them in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side.

Make a glaze by mixing balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and herbs. Pour this over the chicken and let it cook until the meat is done and the sauce thickens.

The result is juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy flavor. Serve it with your favorite sides for a quick meal.

26. Rosemary Baked Chicken Thighs

Rosemary baked chicken thighs are a tasty and easy dinner option. You can make this dish in under an hour with just a few ingredients.

Start by preheating your oven. Mix fresh rosemary, lemon zest, and seasonings in a bowl. Rub this mixture onto the chicken thighs.

Place the seasoned thighs in a baking dish. Cook them in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

These chicken thighs go well with many side dishes. Try serving them with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

27. Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs

Moroccan spiced chicken thighs bring exotic flavors to your dinner table. You’ll love the blend of spices that coat these juicy thighs.

To make this dish, rub chicken thighs with a mix of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika. Cook the thighs in a skillet until the skin is crispy.

Next, add onions, garlic, and cilantro to the pan. Throw in some lemon slices and olives for extra flavor. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer.

Cook the chicken for about 30-45 minutes until it’s fully done. The result is tender meat with a rich, aromatic sauce. Serve over couscous or rice for a complete meal.

28. Savory Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs

Soy glazed chicken thighs are a tasty and simple meal. You only need a few basic ingredients to make this dish.

Mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic to create a flavorful glaze. Brush this mixture onto your chicken thighs before baking.

Cook the chicken in a hot oven until the skin turns crispy and golden brown. The meat inside will stay juicy and tender.

Serve these soy glazed thighs with rice and veggies for a complete meal. You can also add some sliced cucumbers on the side for a fresh crunch.

29. Korean BBQ Chicken Thighs

Korean BBQ chicken thighs are a tasty twist on classic barbecue. You’ll love the sweet and spicy flavors in this dish.

To make it, mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil for the marinade. Add some gochujang chili paste for extra kick. Coat your chicken thighs in this mix.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours. Then grill or bake until it’s cooked through. The result is juicy chicken with a delicious glaze.

Serve your Korean BBQ chicken thighs with rice and veggies. It’s an easy meal that packs a lot of flavor.

30. Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken Thighs

Cajun spiced grilled chicken thighs are a tasty and easy meal. To make them, rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry.

Mix Cajun spices with low sodium soy sauce and hot sauce in a plastic bag.

Add the chicken to the bag and coat it with the spicy mix. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.

While you wait, heat up your grill to medium.

Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Flip it once halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F inside. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top before you serve.

31. Curry Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs

Curry yogurt marinated chicken thighs offer a flavorful twist on a classic dish. The marinade combines plain yogurt with curry powder, spices, and a touch of honey.

This mix tenderizes the meat while infusing it with rich, aromatic flavors. You can marinate the chicken for 4 hours or up to a day for maximum taste.

To prepare, simply coat boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the marinade. Then grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken until it’s cooked through.

The result is juicy, tender chicken with a tangy, spicy flavor profile. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Serve with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Oven-Baking Tips

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

This high heat makes the skin crispy.

Pat the thighs dry and season them.

Put them in a baking dish skin-side up.

Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Leave space between each piece for even cooking.

Bake for 35-40 minutes.

Check the temperature with a meat thermometer.

It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

For extra crispy skin, broil the thighs for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Watch them closely so they don’t burn.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This makes it juicier.