Are you ready for a finger-lickin’ good time? Crispy fried chicken thighs are a culinary delight that never goes out of style. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 deliciously spiced crispy fried chicken thigh recipes.
From Southern-style comfort food to Korean-inspired spice and Japanese flair, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors and textures. With a range of seasonings, marinades, and sauces to choose from, you’ll never get bored with these mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, our crispy fried chicken thigh recipes are sure to please.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crispy fried chicken thighs and explore the diverse flavors and techniques that make them so irresistible. So grab your apron and get ready to spice up your cooking with these mouthwatering recipe ideas!
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs with Hot Honey Drizzle
Elevate your fried chicken game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the tanginess of buttermilk with the spiciness of hot honey. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot honey (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 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. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with hot honey drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Southern-Style Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs
Southern-Style Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs: A classic comfort food recipe that yields juicy, crispy, and flavorful chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 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 pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated thigh on a plate or tray. Repeat with remaining thighs.
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 thighs in batches, if necessary, for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of thighs)
Korean Spicy Fried Chicken Thighs
Spice up your life with this addictive Korean-inspired fried chicken dish, featuring crispy thighs smothered in a bold and spicy Gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gochujang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and crispy garlic for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dredge chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip each thigh in buttermilk, then coat again in the flour mixture.
4. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove fried chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Toss fried chicken with Gochujang sauce until well coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this crispy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, these chicken thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Thighs
A classic Southern dish gets a spicy twist with this recipe for Nashville Hot Fried Chicken Thighs. Crispy fried chicken, spicy kick, and tangy flavor – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1/2 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, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Fried Chicken Thighs with Remoulade Sauce
Get ready for a taste of Louisiana with this spicy and tangy recipe! Crispy fried chicken thighs smothered in a creamy remoulade sauce will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with remoulade sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Japanese Karaage Fried Chicken Thighs
Experience the quintessential Japanese street food at home with this simple recipe for karaage fried chicken thighs. With a light and airy batter, these crispy bites are infused with the savory flavors of soy sauce, sake, and mirin.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or substitute with dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and potato starch.
2. Gradually add ice-cold water to the mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
3. Add soy sauce, sake, and mirin to the batter, whisking until well combined.
4. Dip each chicken thigh into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the chicken thighs in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the number of chicken thighs.
Enjoy your delicious Japanese karaage fried chicken thighs!
Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken Thighs
Elevate your fried chicken game with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper. This recipe yields crispy, flavorful thighs that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon zest and lemon juice. Add buttermilk and mix until smooth.
4. Dip floured thighs in the lemon-buttermilk mixture, coating completely.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Extra Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good meal with this simple and mouth-watering recipe for Extra Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs. This Southern-style classic is perfect for family dinner, parties, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 tablespoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken thighs in the flour mixture (flour and cornstarch), 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: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Fried Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the bold flavors of Thai basil and spices. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these flavorful chicken thighs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated Thai basil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured chicken in beaten egg, then buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
4. Dredge chicken in flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes per side.
6. Garnish with Thai basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Fried Chicken Thighs
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Fried Chicken Thighs Recipe
This Korean-inspired fried chicken recipe combines the sweetness of gochujang with a spicy kick, making it a perfect appetizer or snack. Crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these sweet and spicy fried chicken thighs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Dip each chicken thigh into the mixture, coating evenly.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Fried Chicken Thighs
Elevate your fried chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines crispy exterior with tender and juicy interior, all wrapped up in a delightful herb crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the herb mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken thighs for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Fried Chicken Thighs with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy fried chicken and creamy blue cheese dip. Perfect for a quick gathering or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 ounces blue cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken thighs in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Toss fried chicken with Buffalo wing sauce.
5. Serve with blue cheese crumbles and ranch dressing (if using). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Fried Chicken Thighs
Add a smoky twist to classic fried chicken with this easy recipe that combines the bold flavors of paprika and brown sugar. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Brown sugar, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with brown sugar on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Maple Glazed Fried Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the classic comfort of fried chicken with the warm, sweet flavors of maple syrup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch, these glazed thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured thighs in buttermilk, then coat with a layer of maple syrup, making sure to fully cover the meat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Remove from heat and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Fried Chicken Thighs with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your fried chicken game with this addictive recipe that combines the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken thighs with the spicy kick of sriracha mayonnaise. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sriracha mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated thighs on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain fried chicken on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with sriracha mayonnaise spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Fried Chicken Thighs
Moist and flavorful, these garlic butter fried chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
7. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Chicken Thighs with Honey Mustard Sauce
A classic comfort food recipe gets a sweet and tangy twist with this crispy fried chicken thighs dish, served with a side of creamy honey mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey Mustard Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken thigh in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Honey Mustard Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with fried chicken thighs.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for frying the chicken, plus additional time to prepare the sauce.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispiest and most flavorful fried chicken thighs ever! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic Southern-style to spicy Korean-inspired, and from creamy garlic parmesan to sweet and sour Thai basil, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a tangy buttermilk drizzle or a spicy gochujang kick, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. So, get cooking and discover the perfect crispy fried chicken thigh recipe for you!
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