Introduction
Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? Skillet chicken thighs are a perfect choice! They are juicy, full of flavor, and super easy to make. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can cook a meal your whole family will love. Chicken thighs are often cheaper than chicken breasts, and they stay moist and tender when cooked.
Using a skillet makes the outside crispy while keeping the inside soft and juicy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe is a must-try. In this guide, we’ll show you what ingredients you need, how to make skillet chicken thighs step-by-step, and even some helpful tips and answers to common questions.
Ingredients – Skillet Chicken Thighs
To make skillet chicken thighs, you will need:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Skillet Chicken Thighs
Let’s break it down into easy steps so you can follow along without any trouble.
Step 1: Get Your Chicken Ready
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy when it cooks. Then, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme evenly over both sides of the chicken.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat for about 1 minute. You want the oil hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken – Skin Side Down
Carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down. Don’t overcrowd the pan—leave a little space between each piece. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Don’t move the chicken too much. Let it sit so the skin can get a nice crust.
Step 4: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Once the skin is crispy, flip the chicken over using tongs. Cook the other side for 8 to 10 more minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Sprinkle a little chopped parsley on top if you want to make it look extra nice. Serve your skillet chicken thighs with mashed potatoes, rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Protein | 21g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless thighs cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by a few minutes. Just make sure the inside reaches 165°F.
2. Do I need to use skin-on chicken?
No, but the skin adds flavor and gets crispy in the skillet. If you want a leaner option, you can use skinless thighs.
3. What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
No problem! You can use any heavy pan that heats evenly. Just avoid thin pans, as they may burn the chicken.
4. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes! After cooking the chicken, remove it and quickly sauté some vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini in the same pan for extra flavor.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm.
Final Thoughts
Skillet chicken thighs are simple, tasty, and perfect for busy nights. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can make a meal that’s full of flavor and loved by everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or already love cooking, this recipe is a great one to keep in your collection.
It’s also easy to make your own. Add your favorite spices, try different sides, or even make a quick sauce in the same pan. The best part? It all comes together fast and makes your kitchen smell amazing. So grab your skillet, season those chicken thighs, and let’s get cooking! You’ll be glad you did.
