Cozy up with a deliciously satisfying dinner, courtesy of these 18 mouthwatering dark meat chicken recipes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy and bold flavors or comforting and classic dishes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of drumsticks, thighs, legs, and quarters that are sure to become new favorites.
From the crispy, garlicky goodness of oven-baked drumsticks to the slow-cooked, mushroom-rich comfort of braised chicken thighs, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of dark meat chicken. And let’s not forget the international flair – with inspirations from Korea, Morocco, and Thailand, among others, there’s something for every taste bud.
In this article, we’ll dive into each recipe, exploring the techniques, ingredients, and tips that make them stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of dark meat chicken, get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 18 savory recipes.
Crispy Oven-Baked Drumsticks with Garlic Butter
Elevate your snacking game with these crispy and flavorful drumsticks, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each drumstick into the butter mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat for remaining drumsticks.
5. Drizzle egg wash over the drumsticks (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooker Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the seared chicken thighs, chicken broth, white wine, and thyme. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Honey Glazed Dark Meat Chicken Skewers
Transform your taste buds with this sweet and spicy twist on traditional chicken skewers! Dark meat chicken, glazed with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes, is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dark meat chicken (thighs and legs), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Style Blackened Chicken Quarters
A classic Southern dish with a spicy kick, Cajun-style blackened chicken quarters are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken with a crispy, spicy crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Butter both sides of the chicken quarters with the remaining butter.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caribbean Jerk Chicken Legs with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken legs in a large bowl and brush with the jerk mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve the chicken legs with a spoonful of Pineapple Salsa for an added burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Korean Gochujang-Marinated Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this simple and savory recipe for chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and spicy gochujang mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Drumsticks
Transform ordinary chicken drumsticks into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and Parmesan cheese.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Place the chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the drumsticks, followed by the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Dark Meat Chicken Tagine
A flavorful and aromatic slow-cooked dish originating from Morocco, this recipe combines the rich flavors of dark meat chicken with the warm spices of the ancient trade routes.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or clay tagine over medium-high heat. Add onion, cook until softened (3-4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cover the tagine or Dutch oven with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Bourbon-Glazed Smoked Chicken Legs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with these mouthwatering bourbon-glazed smoked chicken legs. The perfect combination of sweet and savory, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, mustard, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze all over the chicken legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Place the chicken legs in the smoker, leaving space between each leg for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and delicious recipe for coconut curry chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 cup curry paste (Thai red or green)
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk and curry paste. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
6. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Herb-Roasted Chicken Quarters with Lemon and Thyme
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken quarters recipe, featuring a perfect balance of herbs, citrus, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped thyme leaves
– 2 lemons, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme leaves, and garlic.
3. Place the chicken quarters in a large baking dish or roasting pan, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure they are all coated.
5. Place lemon wedges on top of the chicken, squeezing out any juice that flows onto the meat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo-Style Baked Drumsticks with Blue Cheese Dip
Savor the bold flavors of Buffalo wings without the hassle of frying! This recipe transforms drumsticks into crispy, spicy bites that pair perfectly with a tangy blue cheese dip.
Ingredients:
– 12 drumsticks
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your favorite buffalo wing sauce)
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chives, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add drumsticks and toss until fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While drumsticks are baking, combine blue cheese, sour cream, and chives in a bowl.
7. Serve warm drumsticks with blue cheese dip.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sesame Soy Braised Chicken Thighs with Bok Choy
This Asian-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of sesame and soy sauce with the tenderness of braised chicken thighs, all while paired with the crunch of bok choy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bunches bok choy, cleaned and separated into stems and leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat sesame oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low, add soy sauce, honey, onion, and garlic. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add bok choy stems to pot, followed by chicken thighs. Cover with a lid or foil.
6. Braise for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is tender and bok choy is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken Drumsticks
Mediterranean Lemon-Olive Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast with this flavorful and aromatic dish! This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken drumsticks with the brightness of lemon, the savory depth of olives, and the warmth of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
8. Garnish with sliced green olives and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Dark Meat Chicken Sandwiches
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked dark meat chicken, tender and juicy with a sweet and tangy BBQ twist.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs and legs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickle slices, and onion rings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the dark meat chicken and toss to coat.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Using two forks, pull apart the cooked chicken into shreds.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Spoon the pulled chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw, pickle slices, and onion rings (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs with Buttermilk Marinade
Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs with Buttermilk Marinade Recipe
Summary: Tender and juicy chicken thighs get a rich flavor boost from a buttermilk marinade, then take on crispy texture from a light coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Serve as a satisfying main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each thigh in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured thighs in the beaten egg and then roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Fry the coated chicken thighs for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, where smoky paprika and garlic come together to create a mouthwatering experience. This recipe yields tender, juicy, and savory roasted chicken legs that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Dark Meat Chicken with Potatoes and Rosemary
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make, flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender dark meat chicken, crispy potatoes, and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
5. Add the garlic and rosemary to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 18 mouthwatering dark meat chicken recipes! From crispy drumsticks to slow-cooked thighs, and from spicy glazes to aromatic marinades, there’s something for every taste bud. Try oven-baked drumsticks with garlic butter, slow-cooker braised chicken thighs with mushrooms, or spicy honey glazed dark meat chicken skewers. Each recipe is carefully crafted to deliver a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
