When it comes to weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor can be a challenge. That’s why we’re excited to share our top 20 recipes for bone-in chicken thighs – each one is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household! From classic comfort foods to international twists, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re looking for a crispy exterior and juicy interior or a rich and tangy sauce to complement your meal, we’ve got you covered. Our recipes range from simple to more elaborate, but they all have one thing in common: they’re incredibly delicious and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
In this article, we’ll be sharing the top 20 bone-in chicken thigh recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From classic garlic butter to spicy Cajun and smoky BBQ, there’s something for everyone on this list. So let’s dive in and get cooking!
Garlic Butter Baked Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe for garlic butter baked bone-in chicken thighs. Tender, flavorful, and aromatic, these chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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 garlic, butter, and paprika.
3. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory taste of soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these glazed chicken thighs are sure to impress.
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
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
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 red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a delicious twist on traditional fried chicken with this easy and healthier oven-fried recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Dip each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured chicken thighs in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with these flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken thighs, infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 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 zest, lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with a spicy kick from hot sauce and red pepper flakes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Season chicken thighs with the spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Remove from heat and brush with hot sauce.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
BBQ Grilled Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of smoky BBQ chicken thighs, grilled to perfection and slathered in a tangy sauce. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any outdoor gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub and smoked paprika.
3. Brush both sides of chicken thighs with olive oil and season with the BBQ-rub mixture.
4. Grill chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush with barbecue sauce.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that combines tender chicken thighs with creamy coconut curry sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry paste, fish sauce, and cumin.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Mushroom Gravy
Impress your family and friends with this rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender bone-in chicken thighs smothered in a savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms in butter until tender.
4. Add garlic, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream; stir until smooth.
5. Place chicken thighs on top of the mushroom mixture and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoked Paprika and Garlic Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and aromatic recipe! Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to these garlicky chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 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 garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-paprika mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Thighs
Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Thighs: A sweet and savory twist on classic roasted chicken!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 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 thyme.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the maple-Dijon mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each thigh.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
This hearty one-pan dish is a perfect weeknight meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Moist chicken thighs, tender potatoes, and sweet carrots all come together in a rich and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 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 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes on each side, until browned. Remove from pan.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add potatoes, carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return chicken thighs to the pan, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic Greek-inspired dish. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon-oregano mixture, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, chopped oregano, and dried oregano.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sticky Asian Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sweet and savory sticky glaze on tender chicken thighs. This recipe combines the bold flavors of soy sauce, honey, and ginger for a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush with the sticky glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs with a fragrant herb crust. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich and tangy creamy mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and butter until smooth.
3. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the creamy mustard sauce evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this flavorful and aromatic Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs recipe. This classic dish is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, featuring the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, allspice, and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, allspice, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and rub the jerk mixture all over them, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Drizzle with chicken broth and vegetable oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the savory taste of crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coated chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this effortless recipe that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the tangy sweetness of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, these flavorful chicken thighs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce glaze by half, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
6. Brush balsamic glaze over chicken thighs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Sweet and Savory Comfort Food
Savor the flavors of slow-cooked chicken thighs smothered in a sticky honey garlic glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the honey glaze over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken Thighs with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this citrusy and savory recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a zesty lemon caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
6. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and spoon some of the pan juices on top. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the sauce is caramelized.
7. Serve with remaining lemon caper sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a flavorful weeknight dinner routine with these 20 juicy bone-in chicken thigh recipes! From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic butter baked bone-in chicken thighs or honey soy glazed chicken thighs for a sweet and savory twist. Or, opt for crispy oven-fried chicken thighs or lemon herb roasted chicken thighs for a lighter take. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, smoky, or creamy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and become new family favorites.
