Home > Blog > How to Cook and Store Chicken Thighs – Easy Guide

How to Cook and Store Chicken Thighs - Easy Guide

Author: Melissa Collins

Updated: January 12, 2023

Are you tired of dry, overcooked chicken thighs? Look no further!

This article will teach you the secret to perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken thighs every time. Plus, we’ll share some tips on how to store and reheat them for maximum convenience and taste.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, don’t miss these valuable insights.

The best way to cook fresh chicken thighs

Among the different ways to cook chicken thighs, the best method for you will depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available. Here are a few options to consider:

Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Now, pat the thighs dry with paper towels and season with your desired spices. Grill the chicken for six minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Pan-frying: Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Now, pat the thighs dry with paper towels and season with your desired spices. Next, place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Now, place the thighs in a baking dish and season with your desired spices. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Slow cooking: Place the thighs in a slow cooker with your desired seasonings and liquid (such as broth or tomato sauce). And then, cook on low for two to three hours or until the chicken is tender and falls off the bone.

Regardless of which cooking method you choose, check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

This will help prevent foodborne illness and ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

The best way to cook frozen chicken thighs

Cooking frozen thighs is generally not recommended as it can increase the risk of foodborne illness. This is because the inside of the chicken may not have reached a safe temperature by the time the outside is cooked, leading to bacterial contamination.

However, if you do need to cook frozen chicken thighs, it is important to thaw them thoroughly first. The safest way to thaw is in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds of meat. You can also thaw chicken more quickly by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water, changing it every 30 minutes.

Once thighs are thawed, you can cook them using any method you prefer, such as grilling, pan-frying, baking, or slow cooking. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F to kill any potential bacteria.

How to cook chicken thighs on the stove?

To cook chicken thighs on the stove, follow these steps:

Over medium-high heat, heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet.
Make sure the chicken thighs are dry before seasoning them.
To cook the chicken to 165°F, place it in the skillet and cook on each side for 5-8 minutes.

Before serving, remove the chicken from the skillet. For a few minutes, let it rest.

For added flavor, you can try marinating the chicken in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and your choice of herbs and spices before cooking. You can also try adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices to the skillet at the end to add some extra flavor to the chicken.

How to cook chicken thighs in an air fryer?

Cooking thighs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get perfectly crispy, juicy results.

Heat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil after patting them dry with paper towels. Make sure both sides are salted and peppered.
In the air fryer basket, place the chicken thighs and cook for 15-20 minutes until they reach 165°F internally.

After removing the chicken from the air fryer, let it rest for a couple of minutes.

How to cook chicken thighs in the oven?

Baking chicken thighs in the oven is a simple and easy way to get perfectly tender, juicy results. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil after patting them dry with paper towels. On both sides, sprinkle salt and pepper.

In a baking dish, place the chicken thighs and bake for 25-30 minutes until they reach 165 degrees.
Rest the chicken for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.

How to microwave chicken thighs?

It is generally not recommended to microwave chicken thighs as it can lead to uneven cooking and a loss of flavor and moisture. However, if you do need to microwave chicken thighs in a pinch, here is a method you can try:

Ingredients:

2 chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

You need to place chicken thighs in a microwave-safe dish, season with salt and pepper, and then place the dish in the microwave.
If you use a microwave-safe lid or wrap the dish in plastic wrap, leave a small opening at the top so steam can escape.
It is recommended to microwave the food on high for 2-3 minutes or until 165°F is reached inside the dish.

If you wish to serve the chicken right away, let it rest for a few minutes.

Keep in mind that the texture and taste of microwave-cooked chicken may not be as desirable as chicken cooked using other methods. Therefore, it is generally best to use the stove, oven, or grill for cooking thighs.

How to cook chicken thighs in a pan?

To cook chicken thighs in a pan, follow these steps:

Over medium-high heat, heat a small amount of oil in a large frying pan.
With the help of paper towels, pat dry the chicken thighs and season with the spices you wish to use.
Using a skillet, place the chicken in the pan and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving it out.

To help you achieve the best results, here are a few tips

Make sure the chicken is fully cooked using a meat thermometer. In order to kill bacteria, the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.

Before cooking the chicken, marinate it in a mixture of oil, vinegar, and your favorite herbs and spices to add extra flavor. As a result, the chicken will remain moist and flavorful for longer.
If you like crispy skin, you can increase the heat for the last few minutes of cooking to help brown the skin. Just be sure to keep an eye on the chicken to make sure it doesn’t burn.
If you’re using a non-stick skillet, use a silicone or wooden spatula to avoid scratching the surface.

To avoid overcrowding the skillet, cook the chicken thighs in batches if you’re cooking a lot at once. As a result, they will be evenly cooked and won’t steam.

How long do chicken thighs take to cook?

The cooking time for chicken thighs will depend on the size of the thighs and the cooking method you are using. Follow these general guidelines:

Oven-baked: 25-30 minutes at 400°F

Grill: 6-8 minutes per side on medium-high heat
Stovetop (pan-frying): 6-8 minutes per side on medium-high heat
Slow cooker: 6-8 hours on low

It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken thighs are fully cooked.

Best side dishes for chicken thighs

Here are a few tasty side dishes that pair well with chicken thighs:

Roasted vegetables: Roast a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, in the oven for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and light accompaniment to chicken thighs.
Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic and satisfying side dish for chicken thighs.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that makes a great alternative to rice or pasta. Try cooking it with herbs and vegetables for added flavor.

Grilled corn: Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime favorite that goes well with grilled chicken thighs.
Baked beans: Baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with chicken thighs.
Roasted asparagus: Roasted asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs well with chicken thighs.

Sauteed spinach: Sauteeing in olive oil and garlic is a quick and easy way to add greens to your meal.

Remember to consider the flavors of your chicken thighs when choosing side dishes. For example, if you’re using a bold, spicy seasoning on the chicken, you may want to choose milder sides to balance out the flavors.

Best condiments for chicken thighs

Many different condiments can add flavor and moisture to chicken thighs. Here are a few options to consider:

BBQ sauce: BBQ sauce is a classic choice for grilled or baked chicken thighs. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meat.
Hot sauce: Hot sauce adds a spicy kick to chicken thighs. Mix it with melted butter or oil to create a spicy glaze.
Mustard: Mustard is a versatile condiment that adds tanginess and depth of flavor to chicken thighs. Mix it with honey or brown sugar to create a sweet and savory glaze.

Mayo: Mayo adds moisture and richness to chicken thighs. Try mixing it with some herbs or spices for added flavor.
Soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty, savory flavor to chicken thighs. Mix it with honey or brown sugar to create a sweet and savory glaze.
Teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce adds a sweet and savory flavor to chicken thighs. Try grilling the chicken with the sauce for a caramelized finish.

Garlic-herb spread: A spread made from softened butter mixed with minced garlic and herbs is a simple yet flavorful condiment for chicken thighs.

Remember to consider the flavors of your chicken thighs when choosing condiments.

How to store chicken thighs?

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for storing chicken thighs:

Let the chicken thighs cool to room temperature before storing.
Place the chicken thighs in a sealable container or plastic bag.
Squeeze out as much air as possible from the container or bag to reduce the risk of spoilage.

Label the container or bag with the current date and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Alternatively, you can store chicken thighs in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

How long do chicken thighs stay good for?

Chicken thighs will stay good in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and in the freezer for 3-4 months. However, it’s important to follow food safety guidelines when storing thighs to prevent the risk of foodborne illness. Always store chicken in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth.

Can you freeze chicken thighs?

Yes, you can freeze chicken thighs. In fact, freezing is a great way to store chicken thighs for longer periods and preserve their quality.

FAQs:

Can you eat the skin on chicken thighs?

Yes, you can eat the skin on chicken thighs. It can be left on when cooking to help keep the meat moist and add flavor. Just be sure to remove any excess fat before cooking.

How long do you bake chicken thighs at 375?

To bake chicken thighs at 375°F, cook them for 25-30 minutes. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F to kill any potential bacteria.

Can you freeze cooked chicken thighs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs. First, let the chicken cool to room temperature before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Next, place the wrapped chicken in a sealable container or plastic bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

How long do you grill chicken thighs on each side?

To grill chicken thighs, cook them for 6-8 minutes on each side over medium-high heat or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do you cook chicken thighs in a slow cooker?

Slow-cooker chicken thighs are easy to make. First, put the chicken in the slow cooker with the seasonings and liquid of your choice (like broth or tomato sauce). Now, cook on low for two hours or until the chicken falls off the bone.