Chicken thighs are a summer staple for good reason — they’re juicy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking to impress a crowd at your next gathering, these 12 summer chicken thigh recipes deliver every time. From smoky grilled marinades to simple oven-baked favorites, each recipe is designed to bring out the best in this delicious, budget-friendly cut of meat.
Summer calls for meals that are easy to prepare but full of flavor, and chicken thighs check all the boxes. Their natural richness keeps them tender and juicy even when cooked on high heat, making them perfect for outdoor cooking or quick stovetop meals. This collection offers a range of ideas — from spicy and tangy to sweet and savory — so you can find the perfect recipe no matter your mood or occasion.
Beyond just great taste, these recipes are crowd-approved, meaning they’ve been tested and loved by families, friends, and guests alike. You’ll also find helpful tips on how to get the crispiest skin, the juiciest bite, and complementary sides to round out your meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting comfortable in the kitchen, these recipes make cooking summer chicken thighs both simple and satisfying.
Get ready to explore 12 mouthwatering ways to enjoy chicken thighs this season — your next favorite recipe is waiting to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Olives
Looking for a simple yet flavorful dish? These Mediterranean chicken thighs are just what you need! Packed with savory olives and fresh veggies, this recipe brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Juicy chicken thighs are complemented by the rich flavors of tomatoes and olives, creating a meal that’s both comforting and vibrant.
This dish is easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. The combination of herbs and spices enhances the chicken, while the olives add a delightful briny touch. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice, and you have a winner!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup black olives, pitted
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Scatter the olives, tomatoes, and bell pepper around the chicken.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean delight!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Grilling chicken thighs with a burst of lemon and fresh herbs is a delightful way to celebrate summer. These juicy thighs are marinated to perfection, combining zesty lemon juice, fragrant garlic, and a variety of herbs that create a refreshing and mouthwatering flavor. The grilling process helps to seal in the moisture, making every bite tender and flavorful.
This recipe is not only simple but also quick, making it a great choice for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. Pair them with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious lemon herb grilled chicken thighs!
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Salsa
This BBQ chicken thighs recipe is a summer essential. Juicy, tender chicken gets a smoky flavor from the grill, while the pineapple salsa adds a sweet and tangy twist. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for cookouts, making it a hit with family and friends.
The combination of flavors is simply delightful. The sweetness of the grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and fun to make.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 ripe pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush them with BBQ sauce and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Salsa: In a bowl, mix together the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and set aside.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with additional BBQ sauce while grilling.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with pineapple salsa on top for a burst of flavor.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs are a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The chicken thighs become tender and juicy while soaking up rich flavors from the garlic and butter. A hint of lemon elevates the taste, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
This recipe is quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a side of vegetables or a light salad.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them, making sure to coat each thigh well.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a hit at any summer gathering. The sticky and caramelized glaze adds a wonderful depth to juicy chicken thighs, ensuring each bite is packed with mouthwatering taste. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
This dish combines the richness of chicken thighs with a luscious honey garlic sauce that’s both easy to prepare and quick to cook. Serve it over rice or alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!
Lime Cilantro Chicken Thigh Tacos
Lime Cilantro Chicken Thigh Tacos are a delightful summer treat that packs a punch of flavor. The juicy chicken thighs marinated in zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro create a taste sensation that’s refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, these tacos are not just easy to make but are sure to impress your family and friends.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tacos in no time. The combination of the tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a hint of lime makes every bite a celebration of summer. Get ready for a quick, delicious meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- Additional lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Tacos: Warm the tortillas on the grill or skillet. Layer the sliced chicken on each tortilla and top with diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and lettuce.
- Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and serve with extra lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious Lime Cilantro Chicken Thigh Tacos!
Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs
Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs are a delicious way to bring a kick to your summer meals. With a blend of spices that pack a punch, these thighs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to whip up. Perfect for barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, they are sure to impress family and friends.
This recipe allows the chicken to absorb all the rich Cajun spices, delivering a smoky and spicy flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re a breeze to prepare, making them a go-to choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the thighs and add the sliced bell peppers around the chicken in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your spicy Cajun chicken thighs!
Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers
Teriyaki chicken thigh skewers are a fantastic summer dish that brings the delicious flavor of teriyaki into a fun, easy-to-eat format. The sweet and savory marinade caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making each bite juicy and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, perfect for a casual gathering or a weeknight dinner.
The combination of tender chicken thighs, vibrant vegetables, and a glossy teriyaki glaze creates a dish that’s not only crowd-approved but also a breeze to whip up. Serve these skewers at your next barbecue, and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1-2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes if using them. Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers alternately.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful teriyaki chicken thigh skewers!
Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Herbs
These crispy baked chicken thighs are a summer staple that everyone loves. Juicy on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside, they are seasoned with a delightful blend of herbs that elevate the dish without requiring too much effort. With a simple preparation, they are ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
This recipe combines the natural flavors of chicken thighs with fresh herbs, making it a dish that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress. The crispy skin adds a satisfying texture, while the herbs provide a burst of flavor that brings everything together. Perfect for those warm summer evenings!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced out to promote even cooking.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs
These creamy mushroom chicken thighs are a delightful combination of tender meat and rich, savory sauce. The earthy flavor of mushrooms perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making every bite comforting and satisfying. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family.
With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfectly paired with mashed potatoes or rice, this recipe is sure to impress anyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Pesto Chicken Thighs with Roasted Vegetables
Pesto Chicken Thighs are a summertime favorite that brings together juicy, flavorful meat and vibrant veggies. The chicken is marinated in a delicious pesto sauce, which infuses every bite with aromatic basil and garlic. Paired with a medley of roasted vegetables, this dish is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends.
The combination of tender chicken and earthy roasted vegetables creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze. Get ready to enjoy a colorful plate that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with the pesto sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- On a baking sheet, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.
Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of spice and zest that will bring a burst of flavor to your summer meals. These juicy, marinated chicken thighs are simple to prepare, making them a go-to option for both weeknight dinners and outdoor gatherings.
The combination of chili and lime creates a tangy and spicy profile that pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or grilled veggies. Plus, cooking them can be done in several ways—grilling, baking, or pan-searing—suiting any cooking preference. Serve these with avocado slices for an extra creamy touch!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they have a nice char.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with avocado slices on the side.
Final Thoughts
Juicy, easy, and sure to please any crowd, these 12 summer chicken thigh recipes prove that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With a mix of flavors and cooking styles, you’ll have plenty of options to keep summer dinners fresh and exciting. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of the season and gather everyone around the table for meals made with love and simplicity.