How to Cook THE BEST Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
30 mins
-
Total Time
35 mins
-
Servings
5
-
Calories
366 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
American
How to Cook THE BEST Chicken Thighs
Description
How to Cook THE BEST Chicken Thighs involves trimming the thighs and seasoning with salt and pepper before searing them skin side down in a hot, oiled cast-iron skillet. The undisturbed sear for 10-12 minutes crisps the skin and allows the chicken to release easily from the pan without sticking. After flipping and cooking briefly on the other side, the chicken is returned skin side up and transferred to the oven to finish cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F.
The combination of stovetop searing and oven baking results in thighs with a golden, crisp skin and tender, juicy meat inside. Using bone-in, skin-on thighs provides more flavor and moisture than boneless options. Resting the chicken after baking helps redistribute juices for moistness.
This method suits a variety of meals, pairing well with vegetables or starches. The clear instruction on temperature and timing guides proper doneness without overcooking.
Ingredients
- 5 chicken thigh bone-in, skin-on
- kosher salt
- black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim any loose hanging pieces of skin or extra fat from the chicken thighs. Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Add the oil to a large cast-iron skillet or heavy bottom pan so it evenly coats the bottom. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down in the skillet. Turn the heat to medium-high and cook the chicken thighs undisturbed for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken releases easily from the skillet and becomes golden brown. Flip the chicken to the other side and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Turn the chicken back to skin side up, then transfer the skillet to the oven. (Or, for less oil pops in the oven, transfer to a baking sheet lined with wire rack.)
- Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and transfer to a baking sheet lined with a wire rack or a plate to rest before slicing so the juices redistribute through the meat.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 366 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 366kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 142mg | 47% |
| Sodium | 111mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 296mg | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 113IU | 2% |
| Calcium | 12mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
