Introduction
If you want a tasty and easy meal, skillet chicken thighs are a great choice. Chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and cook quickly in a skillet. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs stay moist and tender because they have more fat. You can make a delicious dinner using just one pan, which means less cleaning afterward.
Whether you are cooking for your family or just yourself, skillet chicken thighs are a simple, yummy dish that everyone will love. In this article, I will show you how to make skillet chicken thighs step by step. Plus, I’ll share the ingredients, nutritional information, and some common questions.
Ingredients – Skillet Chicken Thighs
Here’s what you need to make skillet chicken thighs:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a little smoky taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or any herb you like (optional)
- 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
Step by Step Process – Skillet Chicken Thighs
Follow these easy steps to make your skillet chicken thighs:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry skin helps the chicken get crispy when cooked. Then, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme evenly on both sides of the chicken.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Put your skillet (a frying pan) on medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for about 1 minute. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Skin Side Down
Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the hot skillet. This step is important because it makes the skin crispy. Cook for about 6-7 minutes without moving the chicken. You want the skin to turn golden brown.
Step 4: Flip the Chicken
Use tongs to turn the chicken thighs over carefully. Cook the other side for about 6 minutes. If you want, you can squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken now for extra flavor.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Chicken should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer or cut into the thickest part to make sure the meat is white and juices run clear. If needed, cook a little longer.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once cooked, take the chicken off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices spread inside the meat, making it even juicier.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your skillet chicken thighs are ready to serve! They go great with rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 22 grams |
| Fat | 15 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 0 grams |
| Fiber | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg |
| Vitamin A | 4% Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 2% Daily Value |
| Iron | 6% Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes! You can use boneless chicken thighs, but cooking time will be shorter. Boneless thighs cook faster, usually about 4-5 minutes per side.
Q2: What if I don’t have a skillet?
Any frying pan will work for this recipe. A cast iron skillet is best because it holds heat well and crisps the skin nicely, but a regular non-stick pan works too.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms after flipping the chicken. Just cook them alongside the chicken so everything finishes at the same time.
Q4: How do I make the skin extra crispy?
Make sure the chicken skin is dry before cooking. Also, don’t move the chicken while cooking skin side down. Use medium-high heat but not too hot, or the skin may burn.
Q5: Can I bake the chicken after searing?
Yes, if you want to make sure the chicken is fully cooked or want to free up the stove, you can sear the chicken skin side down, then put the skillet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Skillet chicken thighs are one of the easiest and most delicious meals you can make at home. They are juicy, flavorful, and crisp on the outside. Plus, this recipe uses simple ingredients and just one pan, making cooking and cleanup quick and easy.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, skillet chicken thighs are a great dish to add to your meal rotation. Try it out, and you might find your new favorite dinner! Don’t forget to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own. Happy cooking!
If you want, I can also help you create a printable recipe card or share tips on side dishes that pair well with skillet chicken thighs. Would you like that?
