Chelsea Winter, a renowned chef and cookbook author, has captivated home cooks with her delicious and approachable recipes.
Her culinary creations are known for their simplicity, flavor, and versatility, making them perfect for everyday meals and special occasions alike.
Among her many beloved recipes, chicken thighs stand out as a favorite ingredient due to their rich taste and ability to stay moist during cooking.
In this collection, we’ve gathered 25+ of Chelsea Winter’s best chicken thigh recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From sticky soy to herb-crusted, these recipes offer a variety of flavors to suit any palate and occasion.
25+ Irresistible Chelsea Winter Chicken Thigh Recipes for Every Occasion
Chelsea Winter’s chicken thigh recipes are a testament to her ability to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re in the mood for something zesty like Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs or crave the bold flavors of Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs, this collection has something for everyone.
Each recipe is crafted with care, using simple ingredients to create extraordinary meals.
As you explore these 25+ recipes, you’ll find new favorites to add to your repertoire, making weeknight dinners and weekend feasts more enjoyable and flavorful. Happy cooking!
Chelsea Winter’s Classic Baked Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Classic Baked Chicken Thighs is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with rich flavors. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare. The chicken thighs are marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, then baked to golden perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat that will satisfy the entire family.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This Classic Baked Chicken Thighs recipe by Chelsea Winter is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful, juicy chicken. The blend of herbs and spices, along with the fresh lemon juice, gives the dish a vibrant and mouthwatering taste. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal that is sure to become a household favorite.
Chelsea Winter’s Creamy Mustard Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Creamy Mustard Chicken Thighs offers a delightful twist on traditional chicken recipes. The creamy mustard sauce adds a tangy and savory flavor, complementing the tenderness of the chicken thighs. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner that feels gourmet but is easy enough to prepare on a weeknight.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tsp dried tarragon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and dried tarragon.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Creamy Mustard Chicken Thighs is a delectable dish that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the sharpness of mustard. This recipe is perfect for those looking to elevate their chicken dinner with minimal effort. Pair it with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a satisfying meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs is a sweet and savory dish that is sure to impress. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the chicken thighs, resulting in a deliciously sticky and flavorful meal. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, transfer the marinade to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened.
- Drizzle the glaze over the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
The Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs by Chelsea Winter is a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The sticky glaze and tender chicken make for a delightful eating experience. Serve this dish with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs is a refreshing and flavorful recipe that brings the zesty taste of lemon and the aromatic essence of herbs together. Perfect for a light dinner, this dish is simple to make and bursts with fresh flavors, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that offers a burst of citrusy freshness with every bite. The combination of lemon and herbs enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and tasty meal. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete dinner that will leave everyone satisfied.
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs is a mouthwatering recipe that packs a punch with its bold flavors. The spicy BBQ sauce gives the chicken a delicious kick, making it a favorite for those who love a bit of heat. This recipe is perfect for a weekend barbecue or a fun family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the spicy BBQ sauce mixture.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and exciting dish that will surely become a favorite at any gathering. The combination of spicy and sweet flavors creates a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Serve these chicken thighs with coleslaw and cornbread for a complete barbecue feast that everyone will enjoy.
Chelsea Winter’s Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs is a rich and savory recipe that features the irresistible combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for those who love indulgent flavors and tender, juicy chicken. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and minced garlic.
- In another bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken thigh into the olive oil mixture, then coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs is a delectable dish that will satisfy any garlic and cheese lover. The crispy, flavorful coating pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve this dish with a side of pasta or a green salad for a complete meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The honey and garlic create a beautiful glaze that caramelizes the chicken thighs, making them irresistibly delicious. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that feels gourmet.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, ginger, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The honey and garlic glaze gives the chicken a sticky, flavorful coating that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Serve it with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs is a sophisticated dish that features the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar. The glaze adds a depth of flavor to the chicken, making it a perfect dish for both casual dinners and special occasions. This recipe is simple yet impressive, sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the balsamic glaze over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs is a delicious and elegant dish that brings out the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar. The glaze gives the chicken a beautiful caramelized finish, making it both visually appealing and incredibly tasty. Serve this dish with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a meal that will impress your guests.
Chelsea Winter’s Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the warmth of curry spices. This recipe is perfect for those who love exotic flavors and a bit of heat in their meals. It’s easy to prepare and brings a taste of the tropics to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and lime juice, stirring to combine.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs is a vibrant and aromatic dish that is sure to transport your taste buds to the tropics. The combination of creamy coconut milk and warm curry spices creates a rich and satisfying meal. Serve this dish with jasmine rice or naan bread for a complete and delicious dinner experience.
Chelsea Winter’s Sticky Soy Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Sticky Soy Chicken Thighs is a savory and sweet dish that brings together the rich flavors of soy sauce and honey. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, offering a deliciously sticky and flavorful chicken that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the soy mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
- Remove the chicken from the baking dish and transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then stir into the simmering sauce until thickened.
- Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Sticky Soy Chicken Thighs is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. The sticky soy glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a mouthwatering flavor that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. This easy and delicious recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Chelsea Winter’s Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and aromatic dish that features a crispy herb crust. This recipe combines fresh herbs with Parmesan cheese to create a delectable crust that adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Perfect for a special dinner or a simple family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken thighs with the olive oil mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Chelsea Winter’s Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs is a beautifully seasoned dish that offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy herb crust adds a wonderful crunch, while the juicy chicken remains tender and flavorful. Serve this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs is a delicious and tangy dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the sharpness of mustard. This recipe is easy to make and results in perfectly glazed chicken thighs that are both flavorful and moist. It’s a great choice for a quick and tasty dinner.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The honey mustard glaze adds a rich and savory coating to the juicy chicken, making it a hit at any dinner table. Serve this dish with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs is a zesty and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of lemon with the aromatic notes of herbs. This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for those who enjoy light and vibrant flavors. The lemon and herb marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful taste that pairs beautifully with various sides.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin-side up.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with lemon slices before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs is a refreshing and delicious dish that brings a burst of citrus flavor to the table. The combination of lemon and herbs creates a light yet savory profile that complements the tender chicken thighs perfectly. Serve this dish with a side of quinoa or a fresh garden salad for a delightful and healthy meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs is a bold and flavorful dish that brings a kick of heat to your dinner table. This recipe features a spicy barbecue sauce that coats the chicken thighs, creating a mouthwatering glaze with just the right amount of spice. It’s perfect for barbecue lovers who enjoy a bit of a fiery twist.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, hot sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the spicy barbecue sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs is a tantalizing dish that packs a punch of flavor. The spicy barbecue sauce adds a smoky and fiery taste to the tender chicken thighs, making it a perfect choice for spice enthusiasts. Serve this dish with coleslaw or cornbread to balance the heat and create a satisfying meal.
Chelsea Winter’s Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
Chelsea Winter’s Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs is a sweet and savory dish that combines the fruity goodness of apricots with savory chicken. This recipe features a luscious apricot glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken thighs, creating a mouthwatering and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the apricot glaze over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Chelsea Winter’s Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs is a delightful and elegant dish that brings a unique twist to traditional chicken recipes. The apricot glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the savory chicken, creating a harmonious and delicious meal. Serve this dish with wild rice or roasted vegetables for a gourmet dining experience at home.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!