Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that’s flavorful, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare, chicken thighs are the perfect choice. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs stay juicy, tender, and packed with flavor even after cooking. This chicken thigh recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress family and guests. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, you’ll have a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if you prefer)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
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1 lemon (juice + zest)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely if you’re using skin-on thighs.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, oregano, onion powder, chili flakes, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken thighs.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Option A: Oven-Baked
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Option B: Pan-Seared
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Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5–7 minutes until crispy.
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Flip and cook another 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
Option C: Grilled
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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Grill thighs 6–7 minutes per side, until juices run clear.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs
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Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure juiciness is cooking to 165°F (74°C).
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Marinate longer: If time allows, let chicken marinate in the fridge for 2–4 hours.
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Don’t overcrowd: Space chicken evenly on the pan for proper browning.
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Rest before serving: Let cooked chicken sit for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Variations to Try
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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs – Add 2 tbsp honey and 1 extra clove of garlic to the marinade for a sweet-savory glaze.
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Spicy Cajun Thighs – Swap paprika with Cajun seasoning for bold Southern flavors.
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Herb Butter Thighs – Brush chicken with melted garlic butter and fresh parsley after cooking.
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Asian-Style Soy Glaze – Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger into the marinade for an umami twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, boneless thighs cook faster and are great for stir-fries or quick meals.
Q: How long can I store cooked chicken thighs?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I meal-prep this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Cook in batches and use for rice bowls, salads, or sandwiches.
Q: Can I remove the skin to make it healthier?
A: Yes, but keeping the skin adds flavor and moisture. You can cook with skin on and remove it before serving.
Conclusion
This chicken thigh recipe is the perfect blend of flavor, simplicity, and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare juicy, restaurant-quality chicken right at home. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-sear, chicken thighs will quickly become a family favorite on your dinner table.