10 Budget-Friendly Chicken Thigh Recipes for Delicious Dinners Under $10

If you’re on a budget but still want to whip up tasty dinners, these chicken thigh recipes are perfect for you. Packed with flavor and creativity, each meal keeps your wallet happy while satisfying your cravings. Get ready to impress yourself and anyone at your table without breaking the bank!

Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic butter chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly dinner. They are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The golden-brown crust on the chicken comes from a simple blend of garlic and butter, making each bite irresistible. Pair this dish with seasonal vegetables for a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank.

In the image, you can see beautifully cooked chicken thighs resting on a bed of colorful roasted vegetables. The vibrant carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers not only add nutrition but also make the dish visually appealing. The fresh herbs on top bring a pop of color and hint at the delicious flavors waiting to be enjoyed.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending too much. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place them skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken thighs and add the mixed vegetables around them in the skillet. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the vegetables.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your savory garlic butter chicken thighs!

Spicy Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs

Spicy Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly dinner. This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, creating a delicious glaze that coats the chicken perfectly. The vibrant colors of the sautéed bell peppers and onions add a fresh touch to the plate, making it not just tasty but visually appealing too.

Cooking chicken thighs is a great way to save money while still enjoying a hearty meal. They are flavorful and tender, especially when marinated and cooked just right. Pair this dish with some rice or your favorite side for a complete dinner that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion, sautéing until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the marinated chicken thighs, skin side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes, basting with the marinade.
4. Combine: Once the chicken is cooked through, add the sautéed vegetables back to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the delicious glaze.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken thighs with the vegetables on the side. Enjoy your flavorful and budget-friendly dinner!

Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for a budget-friendly meal. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. In the image, you can see beautifully grilled chicken thighs garnished with fresh herbs, resting on a grill. The smoky aroma and char marks promise a delicious meal ahead.

Pair these chicken thighs with a vibrant salad, like the one in the background, filled with fresh vegetables. This combination not only looks appealing but also keeps the meal light and healthy.

Now, let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it's clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite salad or side dish.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. This dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with mushrooms. The combination of flavors is comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

The image showcases a bowl filled with perfectly cooked chicken thighs, surrounded by sliced mushrooms and garnished with fresh herbs. The creamy sauce glistens, inviting you to dig in. This meal pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that won’t hurt your wallet. It’s easy to prepare and takes less than an hour, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Combine and Finish: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice or pasta.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without breaking the bank. The image shows beautifully cooked chicken thighs garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, making it look as good as it tastes. The bright yellow of the lemon adds a pop of color and hints at the zesty flavor that awaits.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of garlic and lemon creates a refreshing taste that pairs well with various sides, from rice to roasted vegetables. Plus, chicken thighs are often more affordable than other cuts, making this recipe a budget-friendly option.

Ready to whip up this delicious meal? Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken and add minced garlic and lemon slices to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs!

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Teriyaki chicken thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without breaking the bank. The image showcases succulent chicken thighs glazed with a shiny teriyaki sauce, served alongside fluffy white rice and vibrant broccoli. This dish is not just visually appealing; it's also packed with taste and nutrition.

The combination of tender chicken and sweet-savory sauce makes it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can whip this up in under 30 minutes, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these delicious teriyaki chicken thighs.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
• Cooked rice and steamed broccoli for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the remaining marinade to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken with rice and broccoli. Drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

One-Pan Chicken Thighs With Vegetables

One-pan meals are a lifesaver, especially when you're looking for something quick and easy. This dish features juicy chicken thighs paired with colorful vegetables, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing. The vibrant mix of red and yellow peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes adds a fresh touch to the meal.

Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your dinner. The chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection, and roasting them alongside the veggies allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a simple way to create a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Ready to whip this up? Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish. Surround them with the mixed vegetables.
4. Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey garlic chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty dinner. The image shows juicy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. On the side, there’s a serving of fresh broccoli, adding a pop of color and nutrition to the plate.

This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to save a few bucks while enjoying a hearty meal. The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs well with rice or vegetables.

Here’s how to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
6. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Serve your honey garlic chicken thighs with steamed broccoli or your favorite side dish for a complete meal!

Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs

Maple mustard chicken thighs are a delightful dish that brings together sweet and tangy flavors. The chicken thighs are juicy and tender, coated in a rich maple mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted sweet potatoes, creating a colorful and satisfying meal.

In the image, you can see the golden-brown chicken thighs glistening with the maple mustard sauce, served alongside perfectly roasted sweet potatoes. The warm tones of the dish are inviting, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, keeping your meal under $10!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
3. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them around the chicken in the baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving. Enjoy your delicious maple mustard chicken thighs with roasted sweet potatoes!

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs

Chimichurri chicken thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without breaking the bank. The vibrant green chimichurri sauce adds a fresh kick to juicy grilled chicken. This dish pairs perfectly with colorful grilled vegetables, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

In the image, you can see perfectly grilled chicken thighs drizzled with a generous amount of chimichurri sauce. The bright green sauce contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown chicken. Surrounding the chicken are grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all adding to the plate's appeal. This dish is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal.

Making chimichurri chicken thighs is simple and budget-friendly. You can whip this up for under $10, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, ensuring you can enjoy a delightful meal without stress.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tomato, quartered

Instructions

1. Make the Chimichurri: In a bowl, mix olive oil, red wine vinegar, parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until fully cooked.
4. Grill the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and tomato in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes until tender.
5. Serve: Once the chicken is done, place it on a plate with the grilled vegetables. Drizzle chimichurri sauce over the chicken and enjoy!