Are you looking for some mouth-watering and crispy chicken leg and thigh recipes to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will surely satisfy your cravings. From classic flavors to international twists, these recipes are perfect for anyone who loves a good piece of fried or baked chicken.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and sticky, savory and herby, or spicy and bold, we’ve got you covered. Our list includes dishes like Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Legs and Thighs, Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs with Herbs, Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Legs, and many more.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your chicken turns out crispy and delicious every time. So grab a plate of drumsticks, get ready to get cooking, and let’s explore these tasty recipes together!
Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Legs and Thighs
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the pungency of garlic to create a deliciously flavorful baked chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs and thighs
– 1/2 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, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Thighs with Herbs
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring crispy oven-fried chicken thighs infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Dip each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured thighs in beaten egg for an even coating.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with additional herbs if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Legs
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this bold and savory dish! Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Legs is a flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of gochujang paste with the tender juiciness of chicken legs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 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 gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken legs and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken legs in a single layer. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (optional).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful grilled chicken recipe! Tender and juicy, these lemon pepper chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. During the last minute of cooking, brush with lemon juice.
7. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Cajun-Style Blackened Chicken Leg Quarters
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this spicy Cajun-style blackening recipe that’s perfect for chicken leg quarters. This bold and aromatic dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 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, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with vegetable oil.
5. Sprinkle Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs and Potatoes
Transform your dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter, tender chicken thighs, and crispy potatoes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish, leaving space between each thigh.
4. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
5. Arrange potato wedges around the chicken thighs.
6. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey and the tanginess of mustard. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly over the chicken legs.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Thighs
Perfect for a busy day, these slow cooker BBQ chicken thighs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and no fuss, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Sesame Seeds
This Japanese-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender chicken legs smothered in a sticky teriyaki sauce and topped with crunchy sesame seeds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, and garlic.
3. Add chicken legs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken legs during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe for crispy baked parmesan chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these tender and flavorful chicken pieces are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 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 and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken thigh in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe featuring the classic combination of rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the rosemary-thyme mixture evenly over the chicken legs.
6. Roast the chicken for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs with Mango Salsa
Savor the bold flavors of Jamaica with this simple and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tropical getaway-inspired gathering.
Ingredients:
For the jerk chicken:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is cooking, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve the jerk chicken thighs with the fresh mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Lime Chicken Leg Quarters
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of smoky chipotle peppers and zesty lime juice to create a mouth-watering chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken leg quarters in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
6. Bake chicken for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Garlic Chicken Thighs
A rich and savory dish that combines the flavors of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and creamy sauce with tender chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper to skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over each thigh.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Chicken Legs
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your meal with this simple and aromatic recipe. Marinated chicken legs are baked to perfection, infusing the kitchen with the scent of lemon, oregano, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken legs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil; arrange chicken legs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sticky Soy-Glazed Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar to create a sticky glaze that’s perfect for chicken thighs. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be enjoying this sweet and savory dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs with Spices
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Legs with Spices: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fried chicken.
This recipe yields crispy and juicy chicken legs with a perfect balance of spices, all thanks to the power of an air fryer!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Load the chicken legs into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 20-22 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness; if needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Maple-Glazed Roasted Chicken Thighs with Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavor of maple syrup with the tender, roasted goodness of chicken thighs and crispy Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the glaze all over them. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
5. Roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Toss Brussels sprouts with salt, pepper, and any remaining glaze. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game! This collection of 18 mouth-watering recipes features crispy chicken legs and thighs cooked to perfection. From classic honey garlic to spicy Korean gochujang, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try baked chicken legs with herbs, grilled thighs with lemon pepper, or slow-cooked BBQ for a comforting meal. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try Teriyaki chicken with sesame seeds or Jamaican jerk chicken with mango salsa? Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s something on this list to satisfy your cravings!
