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Cooking chicken thighs with the bone in can be a delicious and flavorful meal. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or frying them, it’s important to cook them for the right amount of time to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. So, how long do you cook bone-in chicken thighs?

The cooking time for bone-in chicken thighs depends on the cooking method and the size of the thighs. As a general rule, bone-in chicken thighs should be cooked for about 35-45 minutes at a temperature of 425°F (220°C) in the oven. However, if you prefer grilling or frying the chicken thighs, the cooking time may vary.

If you’re grilling bone-in chicken thighs, it’s recommended to cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side over medium heat. For frying, you should cook them for approximately 12-15 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Remember, it’s always important to use a meat thermometer to determine the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure they are fully cooked. Now that you know how long to cook bone-in chicken thighs, you can confidently prepare a delicious and satisfying meal for yourself and your loved ones.

Preparation

Before cooking bone-in chicken thighs, it’s important to properly prepare them. Here’s how:

1. Season the chicken thighs

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat.

2. Let them sit at room temperature

Allow the chicken thighs to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them cook more evenly.

3. Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the chicken thighs thoroughly.

4. Prepare a baking sheet

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it to prevent the chicken thighs from sticking.

5. Arrange the chicken thighs

Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them.

6. Optional: Marinate the chicken

If desired, you can marinate the chicken thighs before cooking them. This will add extra flavor to the meat. Cover the chicken thighs with your chosen marinade, making sure they are evenly coated, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Once the bone-in chicken thighs are properly prepared, they are ready to be cooked according to your desired recipe.

Baking

Baking bone-in chicken thighs is an easy and delicious way to prepare this tender cut of meat. The baking process allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin, while keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Next, pat the chicken thighs dry and season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can also marinate them in your favorite marinade for added flavor.

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely.

Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Once the chicken thighs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become even more tender.

For an extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Baked bone-in chicken thighs are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Grilling

Grilling is a popular method of cooking bone-in chicken thighs, as it imparts a delicious smoky flavor and creates a crispy skin. It is important to properly prepare and cook the chicken thighs to ensure they are safe to eat and full of flavor. Here are some guidelines for grilling bone-in chicken thighs:

Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Before grilling the chicken thighs, it is essential to properly prepare them:

1. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help the skin to crisp up during grilling.
2. If desired, you can season the chicken thighs with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This will add flavor to the meat. Make sure to coat the chicken thighs evenly.
3. Let the chicken thighs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling the Chicken Thighs

Once the chicken thighs are properly prepared, they are ready to be grilled:

Temperature	Cooking Time
High heat (400°F – 450°F)	Approximately 6-8 minutes per side

Preheat your grill to high heat, around 400°F – 450°F. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Close the lid and let them cook for approximately 6-8 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and continue grilling for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. This will ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking bone-in chicken thighs is a great way to ensure they turn out tender and juicy. This method allows the chicken to cook low and slow, resulting in flavorful meat that falls off the bone.

To slow cook bone-in chicken thighs, start by seasoning them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can also marinate the chicken to add even more flavor.

Next, preheat your slow cooker on the low setting. Depending on the size of the chicken thighs, they will take around 6-8 hours to cook. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the chicken thighs, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker and add any additional ingredients, such as vegetables, broth, or sauce. Be careful not to overcrowd the slow cooker as this can affect the cooking time and evenness of the chicken thighs.

Put the lid on the slow cooker and let the chicken thighs cook on low for the recommended time. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process, as this can cause heat loss and increase the cooking time.

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker. They should be fork-tender and easily come off the bone. If desired, you can place the cooked chicken thighs under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.

Slow cooking bone-in chicken thighs is a great option for busy days or when you want a hands-off cooking method. The result is delicious, fall-off-the-bone chicken that is perfect for serving with your favorite sides or using in recipes like casseroles or tacos.

Remember, slow cooking takes time, so plan accordingly to ensure your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection!

Stovetop Cooking

Stovetop cooking is an easy and efficient way to cook bone-in chicken thighs. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add a small amount of oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil, to the pan and let it heat up.
3. Season the bone-in chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
4. Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet, skin side down.
5. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid.
7. Cook the chicken thighs for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8. Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Stovetop cooking bone-in chicken thighs is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. Whether you decide to marinate them beforehand or season them simply, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Serving and Enjoying

Once the bone-in chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are a few tips:

1. Presentation:	Arrange the cooked chicken thighs on a platter or individual plates. You can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for added garnish.
2. Side Dishes:	Chicken thighs go well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
3. Sauces and Dips:	Enhance the flavor of the chicken thighs by serving them with your favorite sauce or dip. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or garlic aioli.
4. Enjoyment:	Take your time to savor each bite of the deliciously cooked bone-in chicken thighs. Pair them with your favorite beverage and enjoy a satisfying meal.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your bone-in chicken thighs and create a memorable dining experience for yourself and your loved ones.

Questions and answers

How long should I cook bone in chicken thighs in the oven?

You should cook bone in chicken thighs in the oven for about 35-45 minutes at a temperature of 425°F (220°C).

What is the best way to cook bone in chicken thighs?

The best way to cook bone in chicken thighs is to start by preheating the oven to 425°F (220°C), then seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper and any other desired spices. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and cook them in the oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I cook bone in chicken thighs on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook bone in chicken thighs on the stovetop. Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding a small amount of cooking oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper and any other desired spices, then place them in the skillet skin-side down. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long do bone in chicken thighs take to cook on the grill?

Bone in chicken thighs take about 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, then season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper and any other desired spices. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to marinate bone in chicken thighs before cooking?

No, it is not necessary to marinate bone in chicken thighs before cooking. While marinating can add extra flavor, you can still achieve delicious results by simply seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper and any other desired spices before cooking them.