7 Easy Chicken Thigh Recipes Perfect for Freezing and Reheating

 

7 Easy Chicken Thigh Recipes Perfect for Freezing and Reheating

Meal prepping doesn't have to be a hassle, especially when it comes to chicken thighs! This collection of easy, freezable recipes will not only save you time in the kitchen but also give you delicious meals ready for those busy days. Get the most out of your meal prep with these tasty ideas that are perfect for reheating and enjoying any day of the week.

Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Ready For The Freezer

Spicy honey mustard chicken thighs on a wooden board with honey mustard sauce

These Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a fantastic meal prep option. They’re packed with flavor and easy to make ahead of time. The combination of spicy mustard and sweet honey creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Plus, they freeze well, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

In the image, you can see the chicken thighs glistening with that tasty glaze, served alongside a jar of honey mustard sauce. The presentation is inviting, with a rustic wooden board adding to the charm. This dish not only looks good but also delivers on taste!

To make these chicken thighs, you’ll need some simple ingredients. The process is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch. Whether you’re planning meals for the week or just want a quick dinner option, these thighs are a winner.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. Let the chicken cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  6. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs For Easy Weeknight Meals

Lemon herb chicken thighs served with couscous and roasted vegetables

Lemon herb chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. They are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to prepare. The bright citrus flavor from the lemon pairs perfectly with the herbs, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they freeze well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy them later.

This dish is not just about taste; it's also about convenience. You can whip up a batch of these chicken thighs in no time. Serve them with some roasted vegetables or a side of couscous, and you have a complete meal ready to go.

Here’s how to make these delicious lemon herb chicken thighs:

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

These lemon herb chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep. Enjoy them fresh or freeze for later. Either way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Perfect For Reheating

Sticky teriyaki chicken thighs served over rice with broccoli and sesame seeds

Sticky teriyaki chicken thighs are a fantastic meal prep option. They’re not only easy to make, but they also reheat beautifully, making them perfect for busy weeknights. The image showcases tender chicken thighs coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy rice with vibrant broccoli on the side. The sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a nice touch of crunch and flavor.

This dish is all about convenience. You can whip up a big batch and freeze portions for later. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and enjoy a delicious meal in minutes. Pair it with some steamed rice and veggies for a complete dinner that feels fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small pot, combine the reserved marinade with cornstarch and water. Bring to a boil, stirring until thickened. Pour over the cooked chicken.
  5. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and alongside steamed broccoli.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs: A Freezer-Friendly Delight

Herb-crusted chicken thighs served with green beans and mashed potatoes

Herb-crusted chicken thighs are a fantastic option for meal prep. They are not only flavorful but also easy to freeze and reheat. The golden, crispy crust adds a delightful texture, while the juicy chicken stays tender inside. Pair these thighs with some green beans and creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

To make this dish, you'll need some basic ingredients. Gather chicken thighs, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs like thyme and parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a savory crust that enhances the chicken's natural flavor.

Start by preheating your oven. While it heats, mix the breadcrumbs with the herbs and spices. Coat the chicken thighs in the mixture, ensuring they are well covered. Place them on a baking sheet and bake until they reach a golden brown color.

Once cooked, let them cool before freezing. You can store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub olive oil over the chicken thighs, then coat them with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Let cool, then freeze or serve with your favorite sides.

Crispy Asian Chicken Thighs With Sesame Seeds

A bowl of crispy Asian chicken thighs served over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Crispy Asian Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your meal prep. The chicken is coated in a savory sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, this dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Serving this chicken over a bed of fluffy rice makes it a complete meal. The crispy texture of the chicken pairs wonderfully with the soft rice, making every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be frozen for later use, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The marinade is key to achieving that rich flavor, so don’t skip it!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Coating: Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece in cornstarch.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Add the Sauce: Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
  5. Serve: Place the chicken over cooked rice, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions, and enjoy!

Classic Italian Chicken Thighs With Tomato Sauce

A plate of classic Italian chicken thighs in tomato sauce served over pasta, garnished with fresh basil and cheese.

Classic Italian Chicken Thighs with Tomato Sauce is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. The image shows tender chicken thighs nestled in a rich tomato sauce, served over a bed of pasta. Fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of cheese add a burst of color and flavor, making this meal not just delicious but also visually appealing.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and freeze portions for later. When you're ready to eat, just reheat and enjoy a taste of Italy without the fuss!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
  2. Add the Aromatics: Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. Make the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  5. Serve: Once the chicken is done, serve it over the pasta. Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!

Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs For A Touch Of Sweetness

Maple glazed chicken thighs served with mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.

Maple glazed chicken thighs bring a delightful sweetness to your meal prep. These juicy thighs are not only easy to make but also freeze well, making them perfect for busy weeks. The rich glaze adds a beautiful shine and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.

In the image, you can see perfectly cooked chicken thighs glazed with a shiny maple sauce, served alongside vibrant green beans and a mound of creamy sweet potato mash. The colors are inviting, making this dish not just tasty but visually appealing too.

This recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients that you probably already have at home. Let’s get into the details so you can whip this up in no time!

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the maple mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. During the last 5 minutes, you can broil the chicken for an extra caramelized finish.
  6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs and reheat them whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that make this recipe a family favorite!

Comments