If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, boneless chicken thighs cooked in a skillet are a great option. Not only do they cook up quickly, but they also have a rich and flavorful taste that the whole family will love. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or frying, it’s important to know the proper cooking time to ensure that your chicken thighs turn out perfectly juicy and tender.

When cooking boneless chicken thighs in a skillet, the cooking time will depend on a few factors including the thickness of the thighs and the cooking method you choose. As a general rule of thumb, boneless chicken thighs will take about 6-8 minutes per side to cook on medium-high heat. However, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken and ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Before cooking the chicken thighs, it’s important to properly season them with your favorite spices and herbs. You can marinate the thighs for a few hours or even overnight to enhance the flavor, or simply rub them with a mixture of salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking. Once the skillet is heated, add a small amount of oil and place the thighs in the pan. Cook them on medium-high heat, flipping once halfway through the cooking time.

Remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your stove and skillet, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks. Overcooked chicken thighs can become dry and tough, so it’s best to remove them from the heat as soon as they reach the recommended internal temperature. Once cooked, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure that the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist and juicy.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure if the chicken thighs are fully cooked, make a small cut in the thickest part of the meat to check for any pinkness or juices. If there is any trace of pink or the juices are not clear, continue cooking for a few more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Preparation

Tyson® Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, 2.5 lb. (Frozen)
Tyson® Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, 2.5 lb. (Frozen)
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Before cooking boneless chicken thighs in a skillet, there are a few preparation steps you should take to ensure a delicious and well-cooked meal.

1. Season the chicken thighs:

Start by seasoning the boneless chicken thighs with your preferred seasoning. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or experiment with your favorite spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs.

2. Preheat the skillet:

Place a skillet over medium heat and allow it to preheat. Adding the chicken to a hot skillet ensures an even cooking process and helps to achieve a crispy outside and juicy inside.

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3. Add oil to the skillet:

Once the skillet is preheated, add a small amount of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or any cooking oil of your choice.

4. Brown the chicken thighs:

Place the seasoned boneless chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down if they have skin. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden brown crust. This step adds flavor and locks in moisture.

5. Cook the chicken thighs:

Continue cooking the boneless chicken thighs, flipping occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Depending on the thickness of the thighs, this usually takes about 10-12 minutes.

Bell & Evans Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Bell & Evans Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
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6. Rest and serve:

Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Serve the chicken thighs as desired, whether on their own or as part of a delicious meal.

Cooking time

The cooking time for boneless chicken thighs in a skillet can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and the desired level of doneness. However, on average, boneless chicken thighs should be cooked for about 6-8 minutes per side.

To ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly, it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before it is considered safe to eat.

Here is a general guide for cooking boneless chicken thighs:

365 by Whole Foods Market, Chicken Thigh Boneless Skinless Tray Pack Organic, Step 2
365 by Whole Foods Market, Chicken Thigh Boneless Skinless Tray Pack Organic, Step 2
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Thickness of chicken Cooking time
1/2 inch (1.3 cm) 3-4 minutes per side
3/4 inch (1.9 cm) 5-6 minutes per side
1 inch (2.5 cm) 7-8 minutes per side

It is important to note that cooking times can vary depending on the heat of your skillet and the size of the chicken thighs. It is always recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Seasoning

Before cooking boneless chicken thighs in a skillet, it’s important to season them properly to enhance their flavor. Here are some seasoning options:

  • Salt: Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on both sides of the chicken thighs to bring out the natural flavors.
  • Black pepper: Add a bit of black pepper to give the chicken a subtle spicy kick.
  • Paprika: For a smoky flavor, sprinkle some paprika on the chicken.
  • Garlic powder: If you love garlic, adding garlic powder will give your chicken thigh a delicious aroma and taste.
  • Onion powder: Onion powder adds a savory flavor to the chicken.
  • Cayenne pepper: If you like your chicken thighs spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick.
  • Herbs: You can use dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to add a herbaceous taste to your chicken.
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Once you’ve seasoned the chicken thighs, pat them gently to make sure the seasoning adheres to the meat. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before cooking.

Technique

When cooking boneless chicken thighs in a skillet, it’s important to use the right technique to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their juiciness. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs

WHOLE FOODS MARKET Organic Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
WHOLE FOODS MARKET Organic Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
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Before cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken thighs. Start by trimming any excess fat and removing the skin if desired. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any moisture, as this will help achieve a crispy texture.

Step 2: Seasoning the chicken thighs

Season the chicken thighs with your preferred spices and seasonings. Options can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other flavors you enjoy. Coat both sides of the thighs evenly to ensure a flavorful dish.

Step 3: Preheating the skillet

Place a skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to preheat. Add a small amount of cooking oil or butter to the skillet, and let it melt and coat the bottom evenly. This will prevent the chicken thighs from sticking to the pan during cooking.

365 By Whole Foods Market, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
365 By Whole Foods Market, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
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Step 4: Cooking the chicken thighs

Once the skillet is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer. Ensure there is enough space between each piece to promote even cooking. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes on each side, flipping them only once. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

Step 5: Resting the chicken thighs

Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow the thighs to rest for a few minutes, which will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.

Step 6: Serving the chicken thighs

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Just Bare® USDA Organic Fresh Chicken Thighs | No Antibiotics Ever | Boneless | Skinless | 1.25 L
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Serve the cooked boneless chicken thighs hot as a main dish or use them in your favorite recipes, such as salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries. Enjoy!

Serving suggestions

Once the boneless chicken thighs are cooked to perfection in the skillet, you have a delicious and versatile protein that can be served in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity:

1. Classic dinner plate

Serve the cooked boneless chicken thighs with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic and satisfying dinner plate. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and visual appeal.

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2. Healthy salad

Create a vibrant and nutritious salad by slicing the cooked boneless chicken thighs into strips and tossing them with a mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado. Drizzle with your favorite dressing and enjoy a light and refreshing meal.

Feel free to experiment with other serving ideas such as using the cooked boneless chicken thighs in sandwiches, wraps, or tacos. The possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds guide you and enjoy your delicious creation!

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WHOLE FOODS KITCHENS Lemon Herb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
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Q&A

How long should I cook boneless chicken thighs in a skillet?

The cooking time for boneless chicken thighs in a skillet can vary depending on the thickness of the meat, but a general guideline is to cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side over medium-high heat. It’s important to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

What is the best way to cook boneless chicken thighs on a skillet?

The best way to cook boneless chicken thighs on a skillet is to start by seasoning the thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Can I cook boneless chicken thighs in a skillet without oil?

While it is possible to cook boneless chicken thighs in a skillet without oil, it is not recommended. Adding a small amount of oil to the skillet helps prevent the chicken from sticking and allows for better browning and flavor development. Additionally, the oil also helps to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process. If you prefer to avoid using oil, you can try using a non-stick skillet or cooking spray as an alternative.

What can I serve with boneless chicken thighs cooked in a skillet?

There are many delicious side dishes that pair well with boneless chicken thighs cooked in a skillet. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, steamed rice, mashed potatoes, salad, grilled asparagus, or a side of pasta. You can also serve the chicken thighs alongside a variety of sauces or dips for added flavor. Ultimately, the choice of side dishes will depend on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions.