Are you tired of the same old boring meals? Do you want to spice up your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor or convenience? Look no further! Frozen chicken thighs are a pantry staple that can be transformed into a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, from comforting and classic to bold and adventurous. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes for frozen chicken thighs that are perfect for busy cooks who want to whip up a tasty meal in no time.
From crispy baked thighs smothered in garlic butter to slow-cooked honey mustard wings, and from spicy Cajun-style thighs to creamy mushroom sauce, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered.
So go ahead, get creative, and let the magic of frozen chicken thighs transform your meals!
Crispy Baked Frozen Chicken Thighs
Transform frozen chicken thighs into a crispy and delicious meal with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Sprinkle the garlic powder and paprika evenly over the chicken thighs.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Tips:
• For an extra-crispy exterior, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time.
• Serve hot with your favorite sides, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Frozen Chicken Thighs
Transform frozen chicken thighs into a mouthwatering dish with the power of garlic butter. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then spread the garlic butter mixture evenly among the thighs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Frozen Chicken Thighs
Tender and flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, all with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a busy day when you need a delicious meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the frozen chicken thighs in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the honey mixture and stir to combine.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs in the slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Cajun Frozen Chicken Thighs
Add a kick of heat to your weeknight dinner routine with these easy and flavorful Spicy Cajun Frozen Chicken Thighs. This recipe is perfect for busy households, as it requires minimal prep time and can be cooked straight from the freezer.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Brush the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Cook for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Frozen Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon, the pungency of herbs, and the convenience of frozen chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Optional: Sprinkle with garlic powder and paprika for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Teriyaki Glazed Frozen Chicken Thighs
Elevate your frozen chicken game with this easy and flavorful teriyaki glaze recipe! With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying juicy and sticky chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic powder.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the chicken thighs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Frozen Chicken Thighs with Vegetables
This recipe is a quick and delicious way to cook frozen chicken thighs with vegetables, all in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. paprika, Italian seasoning)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the frozen chicken thighs, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Frozen Chicken Thighs in the Oven
Transform frozen chicken thighs into tender and flavorful BBQ delights with this simple oven recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, making sure each thigh is lightly coated.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the barbecue sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each thigh gets a good glaze.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of creamy mushroom sauce with the convenience of frozen chicken thighs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in flour to thicken sauce. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place frozen chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour mushroom sauce over the top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Frozen Chicken Thighs and Potatoes
A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s perfect for a busy schedule. This recipe combines the convenience of frozen chicken thighs with the simplicity of roasted potatoes, all in one sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen chicken thighs
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on one half of the sheet pan, leaving some space between each thigh.
4. Toss the potato chunks with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs in White Wine Sauce
Elevate your meal with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines frozen chicken thighs, white wine, and a hint of cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw frozen chicken thighs according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in white wine, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add thawed chicken thighs; season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Frozen Chicken Thighs with Olives
Elevate your frozen chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic Greek-inspired recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, these chicken thighs are smothered in a savory blend of olives, feta cheese, and Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olives, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle the olive-garlic mixture evenly over each thigh.
5. Top each thigh with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs Adobo
Frozen Chicken Thighs Adobo Recipe
Summary: A classic Filipino dish with a twist – using frozen chicken thighs to make it easy and convenient! This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 lbs frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and salt.
3. Add the frozen chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re coated evenly.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: You can also cook the chicken in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours if you prefer!
Frozen Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Rosemary
This recipe combines the simplicity of frozen chicken thighs with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle lemon juice, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Savor the flavors of the tropics with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine frozen chicken thighs, sliced onions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. In a separate pan, heat the coconut milk over medium-high heat. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add curry sauce, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir until combined.
5. Add the chicken mixture to the pan, stirring gently to coat with the sauce.
6. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Crust
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Tender frozen chicken thighs are elevated by a crispy garlic parmesan crust that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each thigh.
4. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs.
6. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe is a great way to use up frozen chicken thighs and add some color and flavor to your meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a tasty stir-fry on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until thawed and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the remaining ingredients (except soy sauce) to the pan and stir-fry until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in the soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs with Honey Garlic Glaze
Transform frozen chicken thighs into a mouthwatering main course with this easy recipe featuring a sticky honey garlic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen chicken thighs (approx. 4-6 pieces)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the chicken thighs.
6. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
A flavorful and comforting meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the tender juiciness of frozen chicken thighs with the rich, creamy goodness of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken thighs
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the frozen chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir until well combined.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
6. Place chicken thighs in the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Thighs with Smoky Paprika Rub
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and aromatic recipe. Smoky paprika adds a deep, savory flavor to frozen chicken thighs, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp smoky paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoky paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove chicken thighs from the freezer and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering frozen chicken thigh recipes perfect for busy cooks. From crispy baked to slow cooker and one-pan meals, these delicious recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try Garlic Butter Frozen Chicken Thighs, Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Frozen Chicken Thighs, or Teriyaki Glazed Frozen Chicken Thighs for a quick and easy dinner solution. With a variety of flavors and cooking methods, there’s something for everyone in this collection of tasty recipes.
