Are you tired of serving the same old chicken dishes to your family and friends? Look no further! Chicken thighs and legs are a versatile and delicious protein that can be cooked in countless ways, from comforting classics to bold international flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes for chicken thighs and legs that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory and spicy to sweet and tangy, these dishes showcase the incredible range of flavors and textures you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to take your chicken game to the next level!
Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs
Transform your chicken into a flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs and legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs and legs in a large bowl or zip-top plastic bag.
4. Pour glaze over the chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
6. Remove from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs and Legs
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs and Legs recipe. This bold and aromatic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken thighs and legs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Thighs and Legs
Brighten up your dinner table with this zesty and flavorful recipe for Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Thighs and Legs. A perfect combination of tangy lemon zest, savory pepper, and succulent chicken, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a large baking dish and brush the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both thighs and legs.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs and Legs with Pineapple
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Teriyaki Chicken Thighs and Legs with Pineapple! This easy-to-make dish combines juicy chicken, sticky teriyaki sauce, and caramelized pineapple for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pineapple rings and juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bake the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil (if using).
- Glaze the cooked chicken with the teriyaki mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Sear the pineapple rings in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
- Serve the glazed chicken with the seared pineapple rings and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs and Legs
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs and Legs Recipe
Get ready to savor the crispy, juicy goodness of oven-fried chicken without the hassle of deep-frying! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier take on classic fried chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2-3 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), and salt.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, crispy on the outside.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs and Legs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this easy recipe that combines the richness of BBQ sauce with the deep smokiness of wood-fired cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup Smoky BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs and legs in a large bowl. Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken, ensuring they’re all coated evenly.
4. Grill or smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Mediterranean Style Chicken Thighs and Legs
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy-to-make dish, featuring chicken thighs and legs marinated in a blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs and legs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs and Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic and creamy curry dish, featuring tender chicken thighs and legs smothered in a rich coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry paste (Thai red or green)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 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; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic Southern Fried Chicken Thighs and Legs
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of traditional Southern fried chicken, with crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches, if necessary, for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs and Legs
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe yields crispy, cheesy, and aromatic chicken thighs and legs perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp 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 Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the garlic-Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of each piece.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs Recipe
Sweet and sticky, this maple glaze is the perfect addition to chicken thighs and legs. Elevate your weeknight dinner with a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Place chicken thighs and legs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the maple glaze all over the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful roasted chicken dish, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken thighs and legs in a large baking dish. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs and Legs
Get ready to spice up your meal with this mouth-watering Buffalo style chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or similar)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
4. Toss chicken thighs and legs with the Buffalo sauce mixture until fully coated.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs and Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouth-watering recipe for jerk chicken thighs and legs. This classic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Place chicken thighs and legs in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the jerk mixture over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. 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 and Legs in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this indulgent recipe featuring tender thighs and legs smothered in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add chicken thighs and legs to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Pour sauce over the chicken and mushrooms in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Orange Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Orange Ginger Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs Recipe
Brighten up your meal with the warm and inviting flavors of orange, ginger, and honey! This recipe yields tender and juicy chicken thighs and legs smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, grated ginger, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs and legs in a large baking dish, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh orange slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields juicy, flavorful thighs and legs that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 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 bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs and legs in a shallow baking dish. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs and Legs with Olives
Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs and Legs with Olives Recipe
A classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and olives with tender chicken thighs and legs.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Sprinkle the sliced olives over the top of the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or Greek salad.
Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs and Legs with Dijon Mustard
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe, featuring a crispy herb crust and tangy Dijon mustard glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley), chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped herbs, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the herb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle Dijon mustard over the top of each piece.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the ultimate collection of delicious chicken thigh and leg recipes for every occasion! This comprehensive list features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to impress. From classic comfort foods like Southern Fried Chicken to international flavors such as Thai Coconut Curry and Jamaican Jerk, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these recipes offer endless possibilities. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these easy-to-make and flavorful chicken thigh and leg recipes!
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