11 Juicy Summer Chicken Thigh Recipes You’ll Keep Making On Repeat

11 Juicy Summer Chicken Thigh Recipes You’ll Keep Making On Repeat are here to transform your warm-weather meals into unforgettable culinary moments. As the days get longer and the grill gets hotter, there’s no better time to embrace the rich, savory flavor of chicken thighs. Known for their tenderness and ability to soak up marinades beautifully, chicken thighs are the unsung heroes of summer cooking. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a picnic at the park, or a relaxed family dinner on the patio, these recipes will bring bold flavors and juicy textures to every plate.

From zesty citrus glazes to smoky grilled marinades and herb-infused oven bakes, each recipe in this list is crafted to showcase the versatility of chicken thighs while keeping preparation simple and approachable. These dishes are designed for real life—minimal fuss, maximum taste, and perfect for those sun-drenched evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. So, whether you’re a fan of sweet heat, classic BBQ, or fresh Mediterranean flavors, there’s a go-to summer recipe waiting for you just ahead.

Zesty Chimichurri Chicken Thighs

Get ready to treat your taste buds with these Zesty Chimichurri Chicken Thighs! This recipe brings a burst of freshness and flavor that’s perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner.

The juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce, made with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice. It’s super simple to whip up, and the combination of the tangy sauce with tender chicken is truly irresistible!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl and pour half of the chimichurri sauce over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. Serve: Drizzle the remaining chimichurri sauce over the cooked chicken thighs and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Spicy Honey Garlic Glazed Thighs

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy, these Spicy Honey Garlic Glazed Thighs are a must-try. The tender chicken thighs are enveloped in a sticky honey garlic glaze that packs a punch, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Best of all, this recipe is simple to whip up, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about ease. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you can have a fantastic dinner on the table in no time. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the chicken a mouthwatering finish that pairs well with rice or steamed veggies. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over the top, ensuring the thighs are well coated.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving, and enjoy your flavorful meal!

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for summer meals. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and super easy to whip up on the grill. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with any side dish.

This recipe will quickly become a go-to for your outdoor gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Grease the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides!

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Thighs

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy summer grilling. The juicy chicken thighs are paired perfectly with sweet and tangy pineapple, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. The combination of barbecue sauce and pineapple adds a burst of flavor, making this dish not only tasty but also a hit for any gathering.

This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a backyard BBQ, these chicken thighs will be a star on your table. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, olive oil, 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 ideally, overnight in the fridge.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, ensure the coals are glowing and covered with ash.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes, brushing with additional barbecue sauce and adding pineapple chunks to the grill.
4. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
5. Serve: Plate your grilled chicken thighs with the charred pineapple chunks. Enjoy!

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs

These creamy mushroom chicken thighs are a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making this recipe a perfect weeknight dinner option. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish, even on busy days!

The creamy sauce is loaded with mushrooms and herbs, adding depth and comfort to each bite. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, soaking up all that delicious sauce. Plus, it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are softened.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce for a few minutes before stirring in the heavy cream and thyme.
4. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired, and enjoy!

Mediterranean Marinated Thighs

These Mediterranean marinated chicken thighs are bursting with vibrant flavors and are incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of herbs, spices, and a touch of lemon creates a delightful taste that transports you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken that your family will love.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a marinade that packs a punch. The marinated thighs are excellent served with fresh salad or alongside your favorite grains. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs

Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs are a delightful and comforting dish that perfectly blends the creamy richness of coconut milk with aromatic spices. The tender chicken thighs soak up all the wonderful flavors, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. This recipe is not only mouthwatering but also super easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The balance of heat from curry powder and the sweetness of coconut creates a harmonious taste that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or naan. It’s a quick fix that will impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Juice of 1 lime
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, browning them on both sides.
4. Sprinkle the curry powder over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and soy sauce, stirring gently to combine. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
8. Serve the chicken over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers

Teriyaki chicken thigh skewers are a delightful blend of savory and sweet, perfect for summer grilling. The juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce that adds a burst of flavor, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

This recipe is not only simple but also versatile. You can customize the skewers with your favorite vegetables for added color and crunch. Whether you enjoy them at a picnic or as a weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to become a staple in your summer menu!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
3. Grill the Skewers: 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.
4. Thicken the Sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, bring the leftover marinade to a boil, add the cornstarch mixture, and cook until it thickens slightly. Brush this over the chicken skewers during the last few minutes of grilling.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and enjoy your delicious teriyaki chicken thigh skewers!

Buffalo Ranch Chicken Thighs

Buffalo Ranch Chicken Thighs bring together the bold flavors of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing, creating a dish that’s both zesty and satisfying. These chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and easy to whip up, making them perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner.

The combination of heat from the buffalo sauce and the cooling ranch makes each bite a delightful experience. Toss these in a salad, serve them with veggies, or enjoy them straight off the grill. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the chicken thighs in the sauce mixture until well-coated.
4. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy.
5. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Lemon Basil Pesto Chicken Thighs

Lemon Basil Pesto Chicken Thighs bring a burst of flavor and freshness to your dinner table. The bright notes of lemon combined with the aromatic basil create a delicious marinade that elevates juicy chicken thighs to a whole new level. This recipe is not only tasty but also super easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy summer evenings.

Pair these chicken thighs with some roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. The vibrant pesto sauce packs a punch, ensuring your taste buds are satisfied with every bite. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-lock bag or bowl. Pour the pesto over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish, skin side up. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with any remaining pesto and enjoy!

Honey Mustard Glazed Thighs

Honey mustard glazed chicken thighs are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a delightful dish for any summer gathering. Their juicy texture and vibrant taste will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, this recipe is easy to whip up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.

The marinade combines honey, Dijon mustard, and a hint of soy sauce, creating an irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Simply marinate your chicken, bake, and watch as the flavors meld into a tasty treat. You’ll love how simple it is to make a dish that feels gourmet!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer if you have time.
4. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the thighs are cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving and enjoy your honey mustard glazed thighs!

Final thoughts

Summer is all about easy, flavorful meals that bring people together, and these chicken thigh recipes deliver exactly that. With their juicy bite and endless adaptability, chicken thighs are a reliable staple that never goes out of style. So fire up the grill, set the table outside, and dive into these tried-and-true favorites that are destined to become part of your summer rotation. It’s time to cook, enjoy, and repeat.