When it comes to cooking, few ingredients are as versatile and crowd-pleasing as boneless skinless chicken thighs. And when you add a dash of Asian flair, the possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering Chinese recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure across the Middle Kingdom.
From spicy Kung Pao chicken to sweet and sour stir-fries, we’ve got a diverse range of flavors and techniques to spice up your culinary game. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen arsenal.
So grab your wok, chopsticks, and apron – it’s time to get cooking!
Kung Pao Chicken Thighs
A spicy and savory twist on traditional Kung Pao chicken, this recipe uses chicken thighs for a juicy and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup chili peppers, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic, ginger, peanuts, scallions, and chili peppers. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in any accumulated juices. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry
Sweet and Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry: A flavorful and savory dish that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
5. Stir everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
General Tso’s Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic Chinese-American dish, featuring crispy chicken thighs tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce. Serve with steamed broccoli or your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup General Tso’s sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken thighs in cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together General Tso’s sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
7. Remove chicken from oven and brush with the sweet and spicy sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sichuan Spicy Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy chicken thighs recipe, featuring a perfect balance of numbing heat and savory goodness. This dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili flakes (Szechuan or Korean)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, ginger paste, Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken thighs, these honey garlic chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 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 minced garlic and honey until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the olive oil mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the honey garlic mixture over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Pepper Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and protein-packed meal with this easy-to-make stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return chicken to the pan and sprinkle with black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the bright flavors of orange and chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying succulent and aromatic chicken thighs in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: With your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or fluffy rice.
Chinese Five-Spice Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful dish, featuring the bold combination of Chinese five-spice powder. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with vegetable oil and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over each thigh.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Ginger Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce with succulent chicken thighs for a quick and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and cooking time, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
6. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic-ginger mixture.
7. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mapo Tofu with Chicken Thighs
Mapo tofu, a classic Sichuan dish, gets a twist with the addition of juicy chicken thighs. This spicy and savory stir-fry is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add tofu, garlic, ginger paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the wok and stir-fry for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Thigh Chow Mein
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a flavorful stir-fry of vegetables and noodles. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked chow mein noodles
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken thighs according to package instructions or grill until cooked through. Slice into thin strips.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Add cooked noodles and chicken strips; stir-fry for 1 minute to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Pineapple
Savor the flavors of Asia with this easy and delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken thighs, sweet pineapple, and savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Add pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thigh Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, savory fried rice, and a hint of soy sauce for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed frozen vegetables; stir-fry until thawed and heated through.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, combining with the vegetable mixture.
6. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
7. Return chicken to the pan; stir-fry until heated through and combined with the rice mixture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms
This classic recipe is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion. Tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a rich and savory sauce with earthy mushrooms, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat and an irresistible aroma.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken thighs, then set aside.
3. Cook onions and mushrooms until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.
4. Add broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to pot; cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Thigh Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful twist on classic wraps, this recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with crisp lettuce and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush with the mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the lettuce leaves by washing and drying them.
6. Assemble the wraps by placing a cooked chicken thigh on each lettuce leaf, followed by crumbled feta cheese (if using), parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thigh and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken thighs with the crunch of broccoli, all stir-fried to perfection. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the broccoli mixture. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken Thigh Lo Mein
This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken thighs with lo mein noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 8 oz lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Return cooked chicken to the wok and pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute to coat.
6. Combine cooked noodles with chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Thigh Hot Pot
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful hot pot experience with this simple recipe that highlights the tender and juicy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering boneless skinless chicken thigh recipes inspired by Chinese cuisine! From classic Kung Pao Chicken Thighs and General Tso’s Chicken Thighs, to innovative Sweet and Sour Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry and Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover the bold flavors of Sichuan Spicy Chicken Thighs, Orange Chicken Thighs, and Chinese Five-Spice Chicken Thighs, or opt for milder dishes like Black Pepper Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry and Garlic Ginger Chicken Thigh Stir-Fry. Each recipe is a delicious representation of China’s rich culinary heritage.
