13 Easy Healthy Chicken Thigh Recipes Ready in Under 20 Minutes

Short on time but craving something delicious and healthy? These easy chicken thigh recipes are quick, simple, and packed with flavor, all ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a hassle-free lunch, you’ll find tasty ideas that make mealtime a breeze!

Quick And Zesty Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs

These quick and zesty garlic lemon chicken thighs are a fantastic option for a healthy meal that’s ready in no time. The image showcases beautifully seared chicken thighs, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, resting on a bed of vibrant broccoli. This dish not only looks appealing but also bursts with flavor.

The combination of garlic and lemon creates a refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Plus, the broccoli adds a nutritious touch, making this meal both satisfying and healthy. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 cups broccoli florets

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add them to the skillet, skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken thighs and add minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In the last few minutes, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover to steam slightly until tender.
5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Spicy Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs

These spicy honey soy glazed chicken thighs are a quick and tasty option for dinner. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and a hint of spice creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken. The vibrant colors in the image show off the glossy finish of the chicken, topped with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for that extra crunch.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken thighs cook quickly, and the glaze adds a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Serve these with rice or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy.
3. Flip and Glaze: Turn the chicken over and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Cover and cook for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with rice or veggies.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Paprika

These crispy baked chicken thighs are a fantastic option for a quick and healthy meal. The golden-brown skin, seasoned with paprika, adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Pair them with some roasted potatoes and fresh green peas for a balanced dish.

Cooking chicken thighs in the oven is simple and requires minimal prep. The key is to season them well and bake at a high temperature to achieve that crispy texture. You can enjoy this dish any night of the week, and it’s ready in under 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Arrange the halved potatoes around them, drizzling a little olive oil and seasoning on the potatoes.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the green peas to the baking sheet to warm them up.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Quick Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Quick Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The image shows a vibrant bowl filled with tender chicken thighs coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce, surrounded by colorful bell peppers and fluffy white rice. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.

The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, while the fresh vegetables add a nice crunch. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and nutritious in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and add the sliced bell peppers. Stir to coat everything evenly.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers are tender.
5. Serve the chicken and peppers over cooked rice, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Sweet And Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry is a colorful and vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. The juicy chicken thighs are cooked to perfection and paired with a mix of fresh vegetables, creating a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The bright colors of bell peppers, green beans, and onions not only make the dish visually appealing but also add a variety of textures and tastes.

In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up this easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The sweet and tangy sauce coats the chicken and veggies beautifully, making every bite a treat. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Mix in the sliced bell peppers, green beans, and onion. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Pour in the soy sauce and sweet and sour sauce, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy your delicious Sweet and Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry!

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs With Olives

These Mediterranean chicken thighs are a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table in no time. The juicy chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, surrounded by colorful cherry tomatoes and a mix of olives. This dish not only looks beautiful but also offers a taste of the Mediterranean with every bite.

Using fresh ingredients like olives, tomatoes, and herbs, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. The combination of savory chicken and tangy olives creates a delicious harmony that pairs well with rice or a fresh salad. Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup mixed olives (black and green)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken and add the minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, and olives to the skillet.
4. Cover and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Bbq Chicken Thighs With A Twist

BBQ chicken thighs are a classic favorite, but adding a twist can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Imagine juicy, tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, perfectly grilled to give them that smoky flavor. The image captures this delicious dish alongside fresh corn on the cob and a vibrant salad, making it a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The combination of flavors and textures here is simply delightful. The chicken thighs are golden brown, with a slightly charred exterior that hints at the smoky goodness inside. The corn adds a sweet crunch, while the salad brings freshness to the plate. This meal is not just tasty; it’s also visually appealing, making it a great choice for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
3. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy.
4. Flip the chicken and brush BBQ sauce on the top side. Grill for another 6-7 minutes, basting with more BBQ sauce halfway through.
5. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with corn and salad on the side.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs In A Flash

Honey mustard chicken thighs are a quick and tasty option for dinner. This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, creating a delightful glaze that perfectly complements juicy chicken thighs. In the image, you can see beautifully cooked chicken thighs garnished with fresh herbs, served alongside a vibrant salad. The colors are inviting, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that everyone will love. The chicken thighs are seared to perfection, giving them a nice crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside.

Pair this dish with a fresh salad for a complete meal. The crunch of the vegetables and the sweetness of the honey mustard sauce create a wonderful balance. Plus, it all comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for any night of the week!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy.
4. Flip the chicken thighs and brush the honey mustard mixture over the top. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Buffalo Chicken Thighs With Blue Cheese Dip

Buffalo chicken thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic flavor in a quick and healthy meal. These thighs are juicy, tender, and coated in a spicy buffalo sauce that packs a punch. Paired with a creamy blue cheese dip, they make for a perfect appetizer or main dish.

The image showcases beautifully cooked buffalo chicken thighs, glistening with sauce, alongside fresh celery sticks and a small bowl of blue cheese dip. The vibrant colors make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Making buffalo chicken thighs is simple and quick. You can whip this up in under 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or game day snacks. The blue cheese dip adds a cooling contrast to the heat of the buffalo sauce, making every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• Celery sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the blue cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chives to make the dip. Mix until smooth.
5. Once the chicken is done, toss it in the buffalo sauce until well coated.
6. Serve the buffalo chicken thighs with the blue cheese dip and celery sticks on the side.

Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic butter chicken thighs are a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The image shows beautifully seared chicken thighs, glistening with a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. Fresh herbs sprinkle the dish, adding a pop of color and flavor.

This recipe is not just about speed; it’s also about flavor. The garlic butter creates a savory glaze that seeps into the chicken, making each bite juicy and satisfying. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes, basting with the garlic butter.
5. Ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Tangy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs

These Tangy Lemon Basil Chicken Thighs are a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh basil come together beautifully, making this recipe a must-try. You can whip it up in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.

The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, seared to a golden brown, and then bathed in a zesty lemon sauce. The vibrant green basil adds a fresh touch, making each bite refreshing. Serve this dish with a side of rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons (zest and juice)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken and add minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pan. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle in honey.
4. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Simple Italian Chicken Thighs With Tomato Sauce

These Simple Italian Chicken Thighs with Tomato Sauce are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The image showcases juicy chicken thighs simmering in a rich tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil and served with crusty bread. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

The chicken thighs soak up the flavors of the tomato sauce, creating a comforting and hearty dish. Pair it with a slice of bread to soak up the sauce, and you have a meal that feels special without taking hours to prepare.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
2. Flip the chicken and add minced garlic and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread!

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a quick and tasty dish that packs a punch of flavor. The chicken is juicy and tender, while the balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy kick. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

In the image, you can see beautifully cooked chicken thighs glistening with a rich balsamic glaze. They are served alongside fresh asparagus, which adds a nice crunch and a pop of color to the plate. This combination not only looks appealing but also offers a balanced meal with protein and veggies.

Making this dish is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the Glaze: Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Cook the Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken thighs with asparagus on the side. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.