Naturally tender meat and rich taste make this cut a kitchen favorite. These recipes use marinades, spices, and slow roasting or quick searing to highlight that juiciness. They’re forgiving to cook, staying moist even when the heat runs a little high. Expect family-friendly dinners packed with savory flavor in every bite.

Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs

Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs with parsley in a white baking dish with a spatula.
Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy chicken thighs cook quickly under the broiler, making dinner happen in under 25 minutes. Lemon and garlic bring bright, savory flavor to every bite. Great for low-carb meals or anyone who loves simple ingredients with big taste. Even picky eaters tend to ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Easy Garlic Broiled Chicken Thighs

Gluten Free Honey Baked Chicken Thighs

Four juicy chicken thighs with golden, crispy skin and herbs are arranged in a glass baking dish, their big flavor shining through as savory juices collect at the bottom.
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Tender chicken thighs are baked with honey for a beautiful balance of savory and sweet. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for many diets. Ready in about 30 minutes, so weeknights stay stress-free. Only a few ingredients are needed to create impressive flavor.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Honey Baked Chicken Thighs

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Cast Iron Chicken Thigh in Creamy Tomato Sauce with a spoon in a cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

A rich tomato sauce coats tender chicken thighs for a satisfying main dish. Simple ingredients come together easily in a cast iron skillet. Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free while still tasting indulgent. Great for serving over rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Three air-fried, sesame-crusted chicken thighs with broccoli on a white plate.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Boneless thighs turn juicy and tender in the air fryer in about 20 minutes. Everything Bagel seasoning and olive oil add bold, savory flavor. Works beautifully for meal prep or feeding a crowd by doubling the batch. Budget-friendly protein that fits easily into busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Panko Chicken Thighs

Crispy panko-coated chicken thighs served on a white plate with a side garnish.
Air Fryer Panko Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Crispy Panko coating gives each bite satisfying crunch without deep frying. A sweet honey glaze adds just the right hint of sweetness. Air frying keeps the process quick and lighter than traditional fried chicken. A reliable family-friendly dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Chicken Thighs

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Honey Lemon Pepper Thighs with parsley on a white plate.
Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Sweet honey, bright lemon, and mild pepper combine for layers of flavor. Great option when an easy yet impressive dinner is needed. Aromatic seasonings make the kitchen smell amazing while it cooks. Pair beautifully with rice, potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Apple Cider Chicken Thighs

A cooked chicken thigh with apple slices on mashed potatoes, served with green beans.
Apple Cider Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Apple cider and brown sugar create a glossy sweet-savory glaze on juicy chicken thighs. Pan searing adds crisp edges while the oven finish keeps the inside tender. Fresh apple slices give a gentle fruity note. A cozy fall-inspired dinner ready in about 40 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Chicken Thighs

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice in Instant Pot.
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Chicken thighs and rice cook together for a full meal in one pot. The Instant Pot produces tender meat and fluffy rice with little effort. Ideal for busy evenings when fewer dishes are the goal. Consistent results every time make it a reliable go-to recipe.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

A lemony, creamy sauce coats tender chicken thighs and artichoke hearts. Bold flavor comes together in about 30 minutes. Works nicely for both weeknight dinners and guests. Each bite delivers richness without feeling heavy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Paleo

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Paleo on a white plate with parsley, sesame seeds, lettuce with bell peppers, bleu cheese, parmesan and a fork.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Paleo. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Juicy boneless chicken thighs cook quickly in the air fryer with simple teriyaki flavor. Only two ingredients are needed, making prep incredibly easy. Dinner is ready in under 20 minutes. Great option when a late-night meal is needed fast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Paleo

Blackened Chicken Thighs

Chicken coated in seasoning on a plate with tomatoes.
Blackened Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Spicy, smoky seasoning creates a flavorful crust on oven-baked chicken thighs. Juicy meat contrasts with the bold blackened exterior. Works well for meal prep, salads, or grain bowls. A great choice for anyone who loves Cajun-style flavors.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans in a white bowl with a fork.
Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

One skillet delivers chicken, vegetables, and bacon for a complete meal with minimal cleanup. Bacon adds savory richness while green beans bring freshness and crunch. Ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights. Balanced flavors make it satisfying without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Chicken Thighs, Bacon, and Green Beans

Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

Baked chicken thighs in a white dish, seasoned with herbs and lemon slices, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bright lemon and fragrant rosemary bring fresh flavor to succulent chicken thighs. Quick preparation works well for midweek meals. Each bite delivers a balance of citrus and herbs. A simple yet elegant dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Rosemary Chicken Thighs

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Closeup overhead shot of 3 crispy chicken thighs in a black cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

A cast iron skillet creates incredibly crisp skin while keeping the meat juicy inside. Dinner is ready in under 30 minutes. Salt and savory seasonings highlight the natural flavor of the chicken. A reliable method for restaurant-style results at home.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

Four bacon-wrapped chicken thighs with parsley garnish on white plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Smoky bacon wraps around juicy chicken for an irresistible combination. Savory flavors and contrasting textures make every bite satisfying. Surprisingly easy to prepare for weeknights or entertaining. Always a hit with bacon lovers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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