Chicken thighs are a culinary treasure that is frequently eclipsed by the more popular chicken breast. Known for their juicier texture and more robust flavor, chicken thighs are a versatile and economical option for a variety of dishes. So, what to make out of chicken thighs?
Whether you prefer them grilled, roasted, or slow-cooked, the cooking options are practically limitless.
In this article, we will look at a variety of recipes that can be made with chicken thighs, demonstrating how to transform this underrated cut of meat into a culinary star.
What To Make Out Of Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a flavorful & versatile cut of meat that can be used in a number of dishes. Here are some ideas for what you can make with chicken thighs:
Classic Dishes
- Roast Chicken Thighs: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and the botanicals of your choosing. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Chicken Curry: For a more robust flavor, use chicken thighs in your beloved curry recipe. They combine well with a variety of spices and sauces, including tomato-based and coconut milk-based curries.
- Fried Chicken: Due to their larger fat content, chicken thighs are particularly well-suited for frying. Coat them in seasoned flour and fry them in oil until golden and crisp.
- Chicken Stew: Using carrots, potatoes, and celery, prepare a hearty poultry stew. The addition of chicken thighs to a bouillon adds flavor and depth.
- BBQ Chicken: For a smoky, flavorful dish, marinate chicken thighs in your preferred barbecue sauce and grill them.
International Flavors
- Chicken Adobo: Chicken Adobo is a Filipino dish prepared by simmering chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
- Coq au Vin: This French classic is made with chicken thighs braised in red wine with mushrooms and shallots.
- Chicken Shawarma: Grill or roast chicken thighs that have been marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, & seasonings such as cumin and coriander.
- Tandoori Chicken: For an Indian-inspired dish, marinate chicken thighs in a spiced yogurt mixture and cook them in a heated oven or grill.
- Chicken Teriyaki: For a simple Japanese dish, cook chicken thighs in a sweet & savory teriyaki sauce.
Quick and Easy
- Sheet Pan Chicken: Place chicken thighs and vegetables such as bell peppers and scallions on a sheet pan for a quick and simple sheet pan meal. Everything is roasted together to create a straightforward one-pan meal.
- Chicken Stir-Fry: Cut chicken thighs into tiny pieces and stir-fry them with vegetables and a flavorful sauce to make chicken stir-fry.
- Chicken Tacos: Shred cooked chicken thighs and use them as the filling for tacos, along with garnishes such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Chicken and Rice: Cook chicken thighs on top of seasoned rice in a single pot for a simple and comforting meal.
- Chicken Caesar Salad: For a more substantial dish, grill or pan-fry chicken thighs, then slice them and position them on top of a Caesar salad.
Healthy Options
- Grilled Chicken Salad: Serve grilled chicken thighs atop a bed of vegetables dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Skewer portions of chicken thighs and vegetables such as bell peppers and onions. Grill the meat and serve with a side of tzatziki.
- Baked Chicken with Veggies: Place chicken thighs and an assortment of vegetables, such as zucchini, tomatoes, and scallions, in a baking dish. Season with herbs before baking.
- Chicken Soup: Use chicken thighs to prepare a hearty and flavorful chicken broth loaded with vegetables and perhaps some whole grains such as barley or quinoa.
- Lettuce Wraps: For the protein in lettuce wraps, use cooked, diced chicken thighs along with carrots, cucumbers, and a mild sauce.
With their rich flavor and versatility, chicken thighs can be the star of many delicious and varied dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic, international, quick, or healthy, there’s a chicken thigh recipe for you.
Bottom Line
This was all about what to make out of chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are a versatile and flavorful source of protein that can form the basis of innumerable delectable dishes. From traditional comfort foods such as chicken pot pie and stews to more exotic dishes such as curries and stir-fries, the options are practically endless.
The key to making the most of chicken thighs is to embrace their natural juiciness and flavor, choosing cooking methods and accompanying ingredients that accentuate rather than conceal these characteristics.
Read more: What To Make With Shredded Bbq Chicken?