20 Best Chicken Thigh Recipes That’ll Make You Ditch Breasts Forever

Jenny deRemer

Jun 19, 2024, Updated Sep 05, 2024

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Chicken thighs, the juicy MVPs of poultry! This blog post is all about delicious chicken thigh recipes that might make you ditch chicken breasts forever. I’ve got easy recipes for all kinds of meals, and they’re all guaranteed to be tasty. Get ready to level up your chicken game!

Table of Contents

Honey Garlic Chicken

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A close-up of a piece of glazed chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. The chicken looks juicy and caramelized, with a glossy sauce coating and specks of white and black sesame seeds, adding texture and color.
Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Curry Trail.

A fantastic choice for a flavorful dinner, this dish combines the sweetness of honey with the boldness of garlic. The chicken thighs absorb the sauce beautifully, making each bite tender and juicy. With a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings. This recipe might make you forget about chicken breasts. An easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken

Pollo a la Mostaza (Mustard Chicken Thighs)

Close-up of baked chicken pieces in a creamy sauce, garnished with black pepper and herbs. The chicken appears golden brown and tender, surrounded by a rich, velvety sauce. The image captures a hearty, appetizing meal fresh from the oven.
Pollo a la Mostaza (Mustard Chicken Thighs). Photo credit: Maricruz Avalos Kitchen.

This recipe brings a delicious mustard flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken thighs. The tangy and savory sauce makes the meat incredibly succulent. Simple to prepare, it offers a unique and tasty meal option. Chicken thighs make this dish so good you’ll forget about breasts. Great for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pollo a la Mostaza (Mustard Chicken Thighs)

Chicken Puttanesca

A close-up of a flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich tomato sauce, adorned with green and black olives, and garnished with fresh herbs. The vibrant red sauce contrasts with the olives, creating an appetizing and colorful presentation.
Chicken Puttanesca. Photo credit: Maricruz Avalos Kitchen.

This dish delivers a rich and flavorful experience with a combination of tomatoes, olives, and capers. Chicken thighs stay moist and tender, soaking up the robust sauce. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a hearty dinner. Chicken thighs ensure a juicier, more flavorful meal than breasts. A delightful addition to any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Puttanesca

Paleo Chicken Thigh Recipe with Roasted Vegetables

A close-up of a baked dish featuring a roasted chicken thigh surrounded by pieces of sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, and red onion. The ingredients appear well-cooked with a crispy texture, showing a mix of golden brown colors.
Paleo Chicken Thigh Recipe with Roasted Vegetables. Photo credit: Chenée Today.

An excellent option for a nutritious meal, this recipe pairs chicken thighs with a medley of roasted vegetables. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping. Each bite of the chicken is juicy and flavorful, making it a great alternative to chicken breasts. Perfect for a wholesome family dinner. Chicken thighs provide a richer taste that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Paleo Chicken Thigh Recipe with Roasted Vegetables

Huli Huli Chicken

A close-up of grilled pineapple slices topped with cherry tomatoes and sprinkled with chopped green onions on a white plate. The dish has a colorful and fresh appearance.
Huli Huli Chicken. Photo credit: Officially Gluten Free.

This recipe offers a taste of Hawaii with its sweet and savory marinade. Chicken thighs are ideal for soaking up the flavors, resulting in juicy and tender meat. Perfect for grilling, it’s a great option for summer barbecues. Chicken thighs make this recipe irresistible compared to breasts. Enjoy a tropical twist on a classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Huli Huli Chicken

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Close-up of a plate with grilled barbecue chicken pieces, glazed with a rich sauce and garnished with green leafy vegetables. A portion of macaroni and cheese is visible in a small bowl on the side. The chicken appears juicy and well-cooked.
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Enjoy the flavors of the islands with this Hawaiian BBQ chicken. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken thighs. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for grilling. Chicken thighs make this dish a standout, far better than breasts. A delicious way to bring some island flair to your table.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian BBQ Chicken

Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs {Quick & Easy}

Close-up of a plate of grilled chicken with a dark, charred seasoning and a glossy finish, garnished with chopped cilantro. The chicken pieces have a rich red color with slightly blackened edges, giving them a flavorful and appetizing appearance.
Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs {Quick & Easy}. Photo credit: Haute & Healthy Living.

This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious BBQ chicken. The boneless thighs cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the barbecue sauce perfectly. Ideal for grilling, it’s a great choice for a weeknight meal. Chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative to breasts. Perfect for a simple, tasty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs {Quick & Easy}

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

A plate of grilled chicken thighs glazed with a shiny, savory brown sauce, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. The chicken appears juicy and tender with a few grill marks, showcasing a perfect barbecue finish.
Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Great Chicken Recipes.

This recipe is a great option for a simple yet flavorful meal. Baking the chicken thighs ensures they stay juicy while absorbing the barbecue sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Chicken thighs make this dish a favorite over chicken breasts. A delicious way to enjoy chicken thighs at home.
Get the Recipe: Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

Buffalo Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer)

A plate of crispy fried chicken pieces glazed with a golden-brown sauce, accompanied by small bowls of dipping sauces on the side. A few celery sticks are also placed on the plate for garnish. The background includes a textured cloth.
Buffalo Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer). Photo credit: Great Chicken Recipes.

These air fryer buffalo chicken thighs are a perfect blend of spicy and savory. The air fryer ensures they are crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Quick and easy to prepare, they’re perfect for a game day snack or dinner. Chicken thighs make this dish a better choice than wings or breasts. A great alternative to wings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer)

Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives and Tomatoes

A close-up of a colorful baked chicken dish with browned chicken thighs, roasted tomatoes, olives, and topped with fresh parsley, all sitting in a flavorful sauce.
Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives and Tomatoes. Photo credit: Sidewalk Shoes.

This dish offers a burst of flavor with harissa, olives, and tomatoes. Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, absorbing the rich sauce. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a flavorful dinner. Chicken thighs provide a richer taste that chicken breasts can’t match. A unique and delicious way to enjoy chicken thighs, not to mention visually beautiful!
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken Thighs with Olives and Tomatoes

Mouth Watering Chicken

A plated dish featuring succulent slices of poached chicken covered in a flavorful chili oil sauce, garnished with chopped garlic, green onions, and sesame seeds. The dish is presented on a white plate, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures.
Mouth Watering Chicken. Photo credit: Oh My Food Recipes.

True to its name, this recipe promises incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken thighs. The simple preparation makes it a great choice for any night of the week. Chicken thighs offer a juiciness that chicken breasts lack. A great way to enjoy chicken thighs without much fuss. Perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mouth Watering Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

A bowl filled with white rice, topped with glazed slices of teriyaki chicken, and accompanied by steamed broccoli florets. The chicken is garnished with sesame seeds. The dish is presented in a patterned bowl on a light-colored surface.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: Oh My Food Recipes.

This teriyaki chicken rice bowl is a quick and flavorful meal option. Chicken thighs stay juicy and absorb the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce beautifully. Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Chicken thighs make this bowl more flavorful than breasts. A delicious way to enjoy chicken thighs with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

A close-up of grilled chicken skewers glazed with a savory sauce, sprinkled with sesame seeds and garnished with sliced green onions. They are arranged on a white rectangular plate, placed on a green and white checkered cloth.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Fed by Sab.

These teriyaki chicken skewers are perfect for grilling. Chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful, making each bite delicious. Easy to prepare, they’re ideal for a summer barbecue. Chicken thighs ensure a tastier skewer compared to breasts. A great addition for kids and adults to enjoy at any outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Cranberry Chicken

Close-up shot of barbecued meat glazed with a rich, red sauce, garnished with finely chopped green herbs. The glaze is shiny and slightly thick, oozing over the charred edges of the meat, enhancing its juicy and delicious appearance.
Cranberry Chicken. Photo credit: Love From The Oven..

This recipe offers a unique blend of sweet and savory with cranberries and chicken thighs. The sauce keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. Simple to prepare, it’s perfect for a festive dinner. Chicken thighs make this dish more succulent than using breasts. A delightful way to enjoy chicken thighs.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chicken

Creamy Lemon Dill Butter Chicken

Close-up of a dish featuring creamy garlic butter fish fillets. The fish fillets are cooked to a golden brown and generously covered in a creamy sauce, garnished with fresh dill. The dish is served on a white plate.
Creamy Lemon Dill Butter Chicken. Photo credit: The Short Order Cook .

This creamy lemon dill chicken with butter is the ultimate comfort food! Chicken thighs stay super juicy and tender thanks to the creamy sauce, and it’s all easy to whip up for a delicious dinner. Plus, chicken thighs add more flavor than breasts, making this dish extra rich and satisfying. Get ready for a taste explosion in every bite!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Lemon Dill Butter Chicken

Keto Radish Recipes – Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

A close-up of a dish featuring roasted chicken pieces garnished with red onions, halved radishes, and leafy greens. The vegetables and chicken are caramelized, giving the dish a vibrant and appetizing appearance.
Keto Radish Recipes – Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

This keto sheet pan chicken thigh recipe is both simple and flavorful. The chicken stays juicy while the radishes add a nice roasted flavor. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a quick dinner. Chicken thighs provide a juiciness that chicken breasts can’t match. A great alternative to more complicated dishes.
Get the Recipe: Keto Radish Recipes – Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

Mediterranean Chicken Casserole

A large, white, round dish filled with a colorful Mediterranean stew. The stew contains chunks of chicken, zucchini, red bell peppers, tomatoes, black olives, and is topped with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, served in a savory tomato-based broth.
Mediterranean Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: It’s Not Complicated Recipes.

This Mediterranean chicken casserole is a flavor fiesta! Chicken thighs stay nice and juicy while soaking up all the yummy herbs and veggies. It’s easy to throw together for a dinner that’s both hearty and delicious. Plus, chicken thighs add more flavor than breasts, making this casserole extra satisfying. Perfect for a one-pan meal that doesn’t skimp on taste!
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Casserole

Miso Jidori Chicken Thighs

A plate of succulent grilled chicken thighs topped with a savory, caramelized glaze. The chicken is garnished with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
Miso Jidori Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: The Heirloom Pantry.

This recipe takes chicken thighs to a whole new level with delicious miso flavor! The marinade keeps the chicken juicy and packed with taste, and it’s super easy to make for a weeknight dinner. Plus, chicken thighs are naturally more flavorful than breasts, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Delicious and hassle-free – that’s the perfect combo! Right?
Get the Recipe: Miso Jidori Chicken Thighs

Chicken Thigh Tray Bake

Close-up shot of a fork with a bite of seasoned and cooked chicken breast, garnished with chopped herbs. Wedges of roasted potatoes are visible in the background, along with a piece of a roasted onion. The dish appears to be flavorful and well-prepared.
Chicken Thigh Tray Bake. Photo credit: Quiche My Grits.

This chicken thigh tray bake is a weeknight lifesaver! Just toss everything on a pan with some veggies and spices, and let the oven do the work. The chicken thighs stay nice and juicy while they cook, and the whole dish is packed with flavor. Plus, chicken thighs are naturally more flavorful than breasts, making this a super satisfying meal. Easy cleanup and delicious results – that’s a win-win!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Thigh Tray Bake

Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs

Southern-style oven-baked barbecue chicken thighs topped with barbecue sauce and garnished with chopped green onions, served on a white oval platter. A bowl of additional chopped green onions is visible in the background. A checkered cloth is in the foreground.
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Simply Stacie.

This sweet and sour chicken thigh recipe is a dinnertime winner! The sauce makes the chicken super juicy and tender, and it’s easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, chicken thighs are naturally flavorful, making this dish even better than the usual chicken breast version. It’s a delicious way to enjoy these budget-friendly chicken cuts!
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken Thighs

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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