3 Easy Weeknight Meals Using Chicken Thighs or Breasts

3 Easy Weeknight Meals Using Chicken Thighs or Breasts

When life gets busy and your energy runs low, dinner shouldn’t become a source of stress. Whether you prefer juicy chicken thighs or lean, versatile chicken breast, these three weeknight-friendly recipes are quick, comforting, and full of flavour — perfect for feeding family, friends, or just yourself.

All recipes below take 25 minutes or less, use pantry staples, and are kid- and adult-approved.

1. Honey Soy Glazed Chicken (Pan or Air Fryer)

Total time: 20 minutes
Best for: Busy moms, meal-preppers, fuss-free dinners

Ingredients:

  • 500g Mr Farmer chicken thighs or breasts

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tsp minced garlic

  • 1 tsp sesame oil

  • Pinch of black pepper

Method:

  1. Mix all sauces and garlic in a bowl.

  2. Coat chicken evenly and marinate for 5 minutes (perfect even without a long marinade).

  3. Pan Method: Sear on medium heat 4–5 minutes per side, starting skin-side down.

  4. Air Fryer Method: 180°C for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.

The sauce becomes glossy, sticky, and beautifully caramelised — an instant crowd-pleaser. Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed greens.

2. Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken (One-Pan Comfort)

Total time: 25 minutes
Best for: Hosting friends, cozy nights, minimal cleanup

Ingredients:

  • 500g chicken breasts or thighs, sliced

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ cup cream or evaporated milk

  • ¼ cup chicken stock

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • Salt & pepper

  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Method:

  1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  2. Sear in butter on medium heat until golden.

  3. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

  4. Pour in cream and chicken stock.

  5. Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened and glossy.

Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or toasted bread. This dish tastes restaurant-level but requires zero fuss.

3. Oven-Baked Harissa Chicken (Meal-Prep Friendly)

Total time: 25 minutes
Best for: Lean lifestyle meals, bold flavour lovers, BBQ inspiration

Ingredients:

  • 400–500g chicken thighs

  • 1 tbsp harissa paste

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • Salt & pepper

Method:

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C.

  2. Mix all marinade ingredients.

  3. Coat chicken evenly and bake 20–22 minutes.

This dish is smoky, slightly spicy, and incredibly flavourful — perfect in rice bowls, wraps, or salads.

Bonus: How to Swap Between Thighs & Breast

  • Chicken thighs: Juicier, more forgiving, ideal for bold marinades

  • Chicken breast: Leaner protein, cooks quickly, best for slicing or marinating briefly

  • Tip: If using breast in oven recipes, reduce cook time by 2–3 minutes to avoid dryness

Pair These Meals With Mr Farmer Seafood

To keep weeknight meals exciting, alternate poultry with quick-cook seafood such as:

Seafood cooks in under 10 minutes and complements healthy, lean lifestyles — perfect for upcoming bundle offerings.

Back to blog