Are you looking for a protein-packed meal that’s both flavorful and versatile? Look no further than chicken thighs and legs! These affordable and accessible ingredients can be transformed into a wide range of dishes, from comforting casseroles to spicy stir-fries. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the best of chicken thighs and legs, perfect for any occasion.
From classic comfort foods like honey garlic baked chicken to international-inspired flavors like Korean gochujang chicken, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, our collection of flavorful chicken thigh and leg recipes has got you covered.
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs and Legs
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic baked chicken! This recipe combines the richness of honey with the pungency of garlic to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and paprika.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and satisfying recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these oven-fried chicken thighs and drumsticks are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
– 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
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Drizzle vegetable oil over the chicken to promote browning.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs and Legs
Savor the tender, juicy flavor of slow-cooked chicken thighs and legs smothered in a rich BBQ sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a stress-free weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker (6-quart or larger).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, ketchup, and brown sugar.
4. Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs Recipe
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing and flavorful recipe! Tender chicken thighs and legs are infused with the zest of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and a hint of garlic, making for a delightful main course.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 chicken thighs and legs
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs and legs to the marinade; toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange marinated chicken in a single layer.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs and Legs
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs and Legs Recipe
Get ready to level up your chicken game with this bold and flavorful Korean-inspired dish, where spicy gochujang paste meets crispy, caramelized skin. This recipe yields tender, juicy thighs and legs smothered in a sweet and fiery sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Braised Chicken Thighs and Legs
A rich and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken thighs and legs are slow-cooked in a savory garlic butter sauce, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken thighs and legs, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, browning on all sides.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, white wine (if using), and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Remove from the oven and stir in the remaining butter until melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika Grilled Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this smoky and savory recipe that combines the deep flavors of paprika, garlic, and brown sugar. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken pieces.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs and Legs
Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs and Legs: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy glaze made with balsamic vinegar, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jerk-Style Chicken Thighs and Legs with Mango Salsa
Add a Caribbean twist to your chicken dish with this flavorful recipe, perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and soy sauce (if using).
3. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and toss with the jerk mixture until evenly coated.
4. Grill or bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
6. Serve chicken with mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Thighs and Legs with Potatoes and Carrots
A hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs and legs with tender potatoes and carrots, all cooked to perfection in one convenient pan.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the potatoes and carrots to the pan, cooking until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs and Legs with Pineapple
Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Chicken Thighs and Legs with Pineapple
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic chicken thighs and legs, elevated by the sweetness of pineapple and the savory charm of teriyaki sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add chicken thighs and legs to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Toss pineapple chunks in the remaining marinade and spread evenly over the baked chicken.
8. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until pineapple is caramelized.
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs and Legs
A crispy and flavorful twist on traditional chicken thighs and legs, this recipe features a crunchy Parmesan crust that’s perfect for snacking or serving as part of a main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs and Legs with Couscous
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this aromatic dish, where tender chicken thighs and legs are marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, then served over fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons ras el hanout spice blend
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, ras el hanout, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. Remove chicken from marinade and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with couscous and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your roast chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup, tanginess of Dijon mustard, and the comfort of roasted poultry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tbsp pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil; arrange the chicken in a single layer.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Thai Peanut Chicken Thighs and Legs with Rice Noodles
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of peanut sauce with the tender meat of chicken thighs and legs, served on a bed of rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken; toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve chicken on a bed of rice noodles, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (plus noodle cooking time)
Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the earthy notes of rosemary with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, and minced garlic.
3. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and drizzle the rosemary-garlic mixture evenly over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs and Legs with Blue Cheese Dip
Get ready to spice up your game day or any gathering with this mouth-watering recipe for Buffalo Style Chicken Thighs and Legs, served with a tangy and creamy Blue Cheese Dip.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 2 lbs chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the blue cheese dip:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
– Chopped fresh chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and vinegar. Add chicken thighs and legs; toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the chicken in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese, blue cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce (if using) in a bowl until smooth.
5. Serve the Buffalo chicken with the Blue Cheese Dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Lemon Olive Chicken Thighs and Legs
Mediterranean Lemon Olive Chicken Thighs and Legs: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the brightness of lemon, the savory taste of olives, and the richness of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken thighs and legs, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Arrange chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each piece with sliced olives and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Thighs and Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory five-spice glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This sticky sauce combines the warm flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise with a hint of sugar and vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs and legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, and brown sugar.
3. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 20 flavorful recipes for thighs and legs! From classic comfort food to international inspirations, there’s something for every occasion. Try honey garlic baked chicken, crispy oven-fried drumsticks, or slow cooker BBQ legs. Or, spice up your meal with Korean gochujang, smoky paprika grilled chicken, or Moroccan spiced couscous. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and sticky, savory and smoky, or tangy and zesty, this collection has got you covered.
