How To Cook Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a versatile, delicious, and affordable cut of meat. They’re also relatively easy to cook, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

There are four main ways to cook chicken thighs:

Pan-frying
Roasting
Grilling
Baking

Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Pan-frying

Pan-frying is a quick and easy way to cook chicken thighs. It’s also a great way to get a crispy, flavorful skin.

To pan-fry chicken thighs:

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Roasting

Roasting is a great way to cook chicken thighs if you want a juicy, flavorful result.

To roast chicken thighs:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Grilling

Grilling is a great way to cook chicken thighs if you want a smoky, flavorful result.

To grill chicken thighs:

Preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Baking

Baking is a great way to cook chicken thighs if you want a moist, tender result.

To bake chicken thighs:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for cooking chicken thighs

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These thighs will be more flavorful and juicy than boneless, skinless thighs.
Season the chicken thighs generously. Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings will help to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Cook the chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

FAQ

What is the best way to season chicken thighs?

There are many different ways to season chicken thighs, but some of the most popular options include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. You can also use your favorite barbecue sauce or marinade.

How long should I cook chicken thighs?

The cooking time for chicken thighs will vary depending on the method you are using. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should cook chicken thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can I cook chicken thighs from frozen?

Yes, you can cook chicken thighs from frozen. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50%.

What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken thighs?

Some good side dishes to serve with chicken thighs include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta. You can also serve chicken thighs with your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

How can I store leftover chicken thighs?

Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftover chicken thighs for up to 3 months.