Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 scorching hot and irresistibly delicious spicy chicken thigh recipes! Whether you’re a fan of sweet heat, smoky spice, or tangy zing, there’s something on this list for everyone. From classic buffalo wings to international inspirations like Korean gochujang and Jamaican jerk, these mouth-watering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the perfect balance of flavors and heat levels to make your taste buds do the happy dance. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these spicy chicken thigh recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to spice up your life!
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the heat of red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Place chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Baked Spicy Chicken Thighs
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful and crispy baked spicy chicken thighs. A perfect blend of spicy heat and savory goodness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, crispy, and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chicken Thighs
This Caribbean-inspired dish brings the bold flavors of Jamaica to your table with a simple and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (available at most supermarkets)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy and savory dish featuring gochujang, a fermented chili paste. This recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar and water. Brush the mixture evenly over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Red Curry Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Thailand with the convenience of chicken thighs, all in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add curry paste; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with fish sauce (if using) and salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and flavorful Cajun-inspired recipe. These blackened chicken thighs are smothered in a spicy mixture of herbs, spices, and butter that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season the chicken thighs evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Heat the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until blackened.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and spicy twist! This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken thighs with the tropical flavor of mango and a kick of habanero heat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, habanero peppers, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush with the mango-habanero mixture.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on top.
5. Let it rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Buffalo Glazed Chicken Thighs
Buffalo Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe
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Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on classic buffalo wings with this simple recipe that brings the heat to your chicken thighs!
Ingredients:
————
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
————–
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the Frank’s RedHot sauce and honey; whisk until smooth.
4. Bring the glaze to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Brush the buffalo glaze evenly over the chicken thighs.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time:
————–
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 25-30 minutes
– Total time: 35-40 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy the spicy, sweet, and savory flavors of these Buffalo Glazed Chicken Thighs!
Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs, infused with a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together garlic and a pinch of salt.
4. Brush the chicken thighs with the garlic mixture, then coat evenly with the Sriracha-lime mixture.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Thighs
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken Thighs Recipe Summary:
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with the spicy kick of chili flakes and crispy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, chili flakes, and honey until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil.
5. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon the peanut butter mixture evenly over each thigh, making sure to coat all surfaces.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Harissa Roasted Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the comfort of roasted chicken. The result is a dish that’s both aromatic and mouth-watering, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, and honey.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the harissa mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with the bold flavors of India and the comfort of coconut milk. This spicy curry chicken recipe is a game-changer for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Simmer over medium-low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Thighs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of smoky chipotle peppers with juicy chicken thighs. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck, these tender and spicy morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the chipotle mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and spicy twist on classic chicken thighs. This recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the heat of red pepper flakes for a mouth-watering treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chili Lime Chicken Thigh Skewers
Elevate your summer gatherings with these flavorful Chili Lime Chicken Thigh Skewers, bursting with citrusy heat. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next outdoor bash.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili flakes, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional teriyaki chicken, these thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired heat level)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Five-Spice Glazed Chicken Thighs
This sweet and savory recipe adds a flavorful twist to traditional chicken thighs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of five-spice powder and honey creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, five-spice powder, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the top of each thigh.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh scallions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Thighs
Elevate your fried chicken game with this spicy twist on a classic recipe! Crispy, juicy thighs smothered in a zesty buttermilk mixture will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, coating evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry chicken thighs in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 fiery spicy chicken thigh recipes! From classic Buffalo wings to international flavors like Korean gochujang and Jamaican jerk, each dish delivers a punch of heat. Discover new ways to spice up your meals with crispy baked thighs, smoky chipotle flavor, or creamy sriracha sauces. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and spicy or bold and smoky, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-numbingly delicious recipes.