When it comes to cooking chicken, there’s nothing quite like the versatility and deliciousness of chicken legs and thighs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, this beloved cut of poultry has got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what chicken legs and thighs have to offer.
From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors and innovative twists on old favorites, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their chicken game. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and discover your new favorite way to cook chicken legs and thighs!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs and Thighs
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser, this recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken legs and thighs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs and thighs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 the softened butter, minced garlic, and paprika.
3. Season the chicken legs and thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sticky and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This recipe combines the richness of honey with the savory notes of soy sauce, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs.
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 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add garlic and ginger; stir until well combined.
4. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs Recipe
Get ready to devour crispy and juicy oven-fried chicken legs with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic 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, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each chicken leg into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Harissa Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of harissa with the rich taste of roasted chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
6. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Legs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this zesty and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken legs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the chicken legs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Satisfy your cravings with this tender and juicy slow-cooked chicken dish smothered in a rich BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the slow cooker and coat with the BBQ mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Thailand with the comfort of crispy chicken legs. Tender and juicy on the inside, and caramelized to perfection on the outside, these chicken legs are a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oil, onion, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken legs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken cooks, combine coconut milk, curry paste, fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper in a saucepan.
7. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
8. Remove chicken from oven and brush with coconut curry sauce.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs with Potatoes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs with Potatoes Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this smoky, savory recipe that combines tender chicken thighs and crispy potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, quartered (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer, leaving some space between each wedge. Drizzle with any remaining paprika mixture from the bowl.
5. Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the dish, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sticky Maple Mustard Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the classic flavors of chicken legs with a sweet and tangy twist, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. The sticky maple mustard glaze adds a rich and indulgent touch to this easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, olive oil, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken legs in a large baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the richness of herbs and spices to create tender and flavorful chicken thighs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Legs
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this flavorful Jamaican Jerk Chicken Legs recipe! This classic dish is a staple of Jamaican cuisine, and for good reason – the bold jerk seasoning and tender chicken legs are a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken legs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Season the chicken legs with the jerk mixture, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with these flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken thighs. With a garlic parmesan crust, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the tops of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Gochujang Glazed Chicken Legs
A classic Korean-inspired dish with a sweet and spicy glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken legs to the glaze mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Thighs with Vegetables
Quickly cook chicken thighs and vegetables in one pan with minimal cleanup! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a meal that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle with oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs
Get ready to enjoy juicy and crispy chicken legs with minimal effort! This recipe uses an air fryer to cook the chicken to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs.
6. Place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each leg.
7. Cook for 20-22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Thighs with Couscous
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Morocco with the comfort of a hearty meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender chicken thighs are smothered in a blend of aromatic spices and simmered to perfection, served atop fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together spices.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat in spice blend, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with fork and stir in parsley.
7. Serve chicken thighs atop couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs with Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the tanginess of balsamic glaze with the freshness of herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season chicken legs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken thighs glazed in a sticky teriyaki sauce and served with juicy pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush with the teriyaki glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add pineapple chunks to the baking dish and toss to coat with remaining glaze.
6. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken Legs
Add a kick to your dinner routine with this easy-to-make Cajun Blackened Chicken Legs recipe. A flavorful blend of spices and herbs gives these chicken legs a bold, spicy flavor that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Place chicken legs in a shallow dish and brush the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the top of each leg.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe featuring the perfect blend of rosemary and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering recipes for chicken legs and thighs that are perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try garlic butter baked chicken, honey soy glazed thighs, or spicy harissa roasted chicken for a flavorful twist. Or, go for crispy oven-fried legs, smoky paprika thighs with potatoes, or sticky maple mustard chicken for a sweet and savory treat. Whatever your taste buds crave, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your hunger.
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