Juicy, tender, and super flavorful…chicken thighs are an amazing protein to cook with! This post will share 7 healthy chicken thigh recipes that will impress the fam, and satisfy savory cravings.
When it comes to a chicken dinner, not everyone goes for the thigh. And frankly, these people don't know what they're missing!
Chicken thighs are among the most flavorful cuts of meat to throw on a sheet pan or prep for the oven. They're also tender, packed with protein, and cook fabulously in various meals.
What meals, you might ask? I've rounded up 7 of my favorite chicken thigh recipes in this post. We're talking the best of the best! Ranging from soups to tacos to slow cooker meals, I'm willing to bet you'll find something you love.
So if you always default to cooking with breast meat, I encourage you to keep reading this post. All I am saying...is to give thighs a chance.
What Are Chicken Thighs Good For?
Chicken thighs are good for a variety of nutritional benefits. Although they have a slightly higher amount of fat than chicken breasts, thighs are a flavorful source of protein that you can cook in various ways. So get out the spices and get started!
Here are some amazing benefits:
- They’re an excellent source of iron and zinc
- They are rich in B Vitamins
- Packed with calcium and phosphorous
- Super flavorful (pair with a salad and yum!)
- Juicier than breast meat
Can You Lose Weight Eating Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can lose weight by eating chicken thighs because they are a good source of protein. And protein is an essential macronutrient that helps with weight loss (because it keeps you full). I discuss this topic in my post Why Women Need To Eat More Protein.
What also makes a difference is how you cook it. A chicken thigh recipe can be super high in fat and calories OR low in both. Guess which ones we are featuring in this post? The latter!
P.S - Curious about how the whole macros thing works? Discover How to Calculate Your Macros for Weight Loss.
How Can You Tell If Chicken Thighs Are Done Without A Thermometer?
If you don’t have a thermometer, here are some ways to tell if your chicken thighs are fully cooked:
- When touched: The texture is firm and should bounce back immediately.
- While cut and pressed: The juices run clear
- When the meat is cut through: Most of it is no longer pink.
Keep in mind that the safest way to tell if your chicken thigh is done cooking is with the handy thermometer. But these tips will help you wing it (no pun intended) if need be.
Can Chicken Thighs Be A Little Pink?
It's often quite challenging to get all the pink out of the thigh, and attempting to do so will likely overcook it! To be safe, I always reach for the meat thermometer.
Here's what the USDA has to say: As long as the whole chicken has reached a minimum internal temperature of 165°, it is safe to eat (even if still a little pink). So get ready to enjoy these cooked chicken thighs recipes without worry.
7 Flavorful Chicken Thigh Recipes
And now for the chicken thigh recipe roundup! Here’s a quick run-down on what you’ll find on this lovely list, perfect for a weeknight dinner:
- A baked chicken recipe;
- Slow cooker chicken recipes;
- A few soups;
- Takeout alternatives;
- Tacos (because of course).
I’ve added the prep and cook time, plus calories for each of the recipes included.
1. Panko Baked Chicken Thighs
Imagine a fantastic fried chicken dish that uses less oil. Oh yeah, and minus the frying! Yep, you bake this wonderful tasting recipe! This panko-baked chicken made with bone-in chicken thighs delivers the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without all that fat.
My suggestion? Pair each serving with some garlic sautéed spinach for a balanced meal fit for a kingdom.
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 501 kcal
2. Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup
This recipe is for those in my audience who want to experience all sorts of flavors in just one dish. Enchilada soup delivers. As a bonus, this recipe is also super easy to make, clean, and gluten-free. And with pepper, cumin, and cilantro, it's soon to be a favorite!
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 4 hours (yeah, I know, but we're using a crockpot!)
- Total Time: 4 hours and 10 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 118 kcal
3. Healthy Chicken Cacciatore | Rich & Savory
That last recipe is a tough act to follow, but this healthy chicken cacciatore holds its own and is made in the skillet. And it looks darn good on the table! This one is for you if you're a fan of fresh herbs, capers, tomatoes, and garlic. Mmmm. That's a savory mixture!
Try it with cauliflower rice for a very savory, weight loss-friendly meal.
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 591 kcal
4. Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
Ever hear about a cashew chicken recipe that helps with your weight loss goals? That's what we've got right here! What was once my favorite (high-calorie) take out, has been transformed into a delicious and healthy dish. You've got to love the flavor of honey and ginger.
We said SEE YA to the excess sodium and excessive oil. And HELLO to healthier ingredients. It's also pretty simple to make : ) So grab those skin-on chicken thighs!
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours and 10 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 518 kcal
5. Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls
When the burrito craving hits, fear not. For this slow cooker chicken burrito bowl will not disappoint. It features cauliflower rice, black beans, and shredded chicken thighs. So yeah...it does a great job of keeping you full and energized (on fewer calories). You'll enjoy the amazing combo of garlic powder, cayenne, and chili powder in this dish.
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours and 10 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 376 kcal
6. Chicken Tacos
Are people still going wild over tacos? I hope so. This is one of those recipes that tastes so amazing you forget it's clean. I'm confident you'll love the freshness of the lime juice in the pico de gallo and the yogurt-based sauce. I like that it's made with boneless skinless chicken thighs too.
It's got kick, it's got creaminess, and it's what the people want!
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 614 kcal
7. Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Another flavorful soup to get you through the winter months! This chicken tortilla soup is somehow healthy, hearty, and bright all at once. I like that this soup has lots of fiber and veggies like corn and tomatoes.
Plus, it freezes well, so it's great if you like planning ahead for a rainy (or snowy) day. Create this fantastic meal, pop it in the freezer and enjoy it on a busy weeknight.
Recipe Notes:
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours and 10 mins
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: 467 kcal
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