Easiest Chicken Thighs Recipe With Broccoli Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its convenience, flavor, and versatility. The chicken thighs are flavorful, easy to cook, and hard to overcook, making them a great protein option. The broccoli salad is a quick, no-fuss side that balances the richness of the chicken with a fresh, tangy crunch. Together, they create a satisfying and healthy meal that’s ideal for families, meal prep, or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Thighs:

• Boneless or bone-in chicken thighs
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried thyme or oregano
• Lemon juice (optional)

For the Broccoli Salad:

• Fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• Red onion, finely diced
• Dried cranberries or raisins
• Sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
• Shredded carrots (optional)
• Greek yogurt or mayo
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper

Directions

Chicken Thighs:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat a skillet over medium-high heat if pan-searing.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes (for bone-in) or 25–30 minutes (for boneless), until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   – If pan-searing, cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving, if desired.

Broccoli Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30–40 minutes (depending on chicken type)
Total time: 45–55 minutes

Variations

• Add bacon bits to the broccoli salad for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking and easier slicing.
• Make it spicy by adding chili flakes to the chicken rub.
• Swap dried cranberries for chopped apples or grapes in the salad.
• Add quinoa or couscous to make it a heartier meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.
Store broccoli salad separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, and add seeds or nuts just before eating to maintain crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for the salad?

Fresh is best for texture, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before mixing.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, both the chicken and broccoli salad store well and can be prepped ahead.

Can I grill the chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side or until cooked through.

What type of yogurt works best in the salad?

Plain Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor that balances the dressing well.

Can I make the broccoli salad vegan?

Yes, use a plant-based yogurt or vegan mayo and maple syrup for the dressing.

Can I use other vegetables in the salad?

Yes, cauliflower, kale, or shredded cabbage also work well.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

It’s not necessary, but letting the seasoned chicken sit for 15–30 minutes improves the flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but reduce cooking time and monitor closely to prevent dryness.

Is this dish low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs—especially if using Greek yogurt in the salad dressing.

What can I serve with this meal?

It pairs well with roasted sweet potatoes, brown rice, or a slice of crusty bread.

Conclusion

This Easiest Chicken Thighs Recipe with Broccoli Salad is a fast, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With juicy, seasoned chicken and a crisp, refreshing side salad, you get a well-rounded plate that’s simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this no-fuss recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.

Easiest Chicken Thighs Recipe With Broccoli Salad

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This Easiest Chicken Thighs Recipe with Broccoli Salad is a quick, well-balanced meal featuring juicy, seasoned chicken paired with a crisp, tangy broccoli salad. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or healthy dinners with minimal effort.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
• Total Time: 45–55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking or Pan-Searing
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 4–6 boneless or bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

For the Broccoli Salad:

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds or chopped almonds
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots (optional)
• 1/3 cup Greek yogurt or mayo
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or heat a skillet over medium-high heat if pan-searing.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Rub mixture all over the chicken thighs.
4. Bake for 35–40 minutes (bone-in) or 25–30 minutes (boneless), until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For pan-searing, cook 5–7 minutes per side.
5. Optional: Squeeze lemon juice over the cooked chicken before serving.
6. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, red onion, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and carrots.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt or mayo, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour dressing over broccoli mixture and toss to coat. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use boneless chicken for faster cooking.
• Add bacon bits or cheese to the salad for extra flavor.
• Broccoli salad can be made ahead, but keep nuts/seeds separate until serving.
• Let chicken rest after seasoning for more flavor.
• Pairs well with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with salad
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 110mg