Cooking up a delicious fried chicken dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. Frying chicken thighs in a pan is an easy and straightforward method that can result in succulent, tender, and juicy pieces of chicken. Whether you’re making a meal for your family or looking to impress guests, learning how to fry chicken thighs in a pan is an essential skill for any home chef.
Table of Contents
Choose the Chicken Thighs
The first step to frying chicken thighs in a pan is choosing the right cut of meat. Make sure to select bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they will yield the best results. The bone and skin help ensure that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful while cooking. Look for thighs that are plump and evenly colored – avoid any discoloration or bruising.
Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Before you start frying your chicken, make sure to prepare it properly. Rinse each thigh under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat from around the edges of the chicken before seasoning them generously with your favorite spices.
Gather Ingredients and Heat Up the Pan
Next, gather all of your ingredients and set up your cooking station. You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan, vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut oil), and any additional seasonings you’d like to add to the chicken. Place the pan on medium-high heat until it’s hot enough for frying – about 375°F (190°C).
Add Oil to the Pan
Once the pan is heated properly, carefully pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Make sure that there is at least ¼ inch (6 mm) of oil in the pan before adding in your seasoned chicken thighs. Let the oil heat up for a few minutes before proceeding with cooking
Cook the Chicken Thighs
Carefully place each thigh into the hot oil and let them cook for about 8 minutes on each side. Monitor them closely, turning as needed to make sure they are cooked through and not burning. Once both sides are golden brown and crispy, remove from the pan with tongs or a spatula and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease.
Flipping and Fried Skin
Flip the chicken over periodically and take care to not overcrowd the pan. If you’re looking for extra crispy skin, increase the heat slightly before flipping the thighs. This will help them achieve a nice golden brown color with a crunchy exterior
Check for Doneness
The final step is to make sure that the chicken is cooked through. Check for doneness by cutting into one of the thicker pieces and making sure there is no pink or raw meat left. If it’s done, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Making a Sauce
If you’d like to make a sauce for your fried chicken, now is the time. While the chicken is resting, add your favorite ingredients (such as butter, garlic, and herbs) to the same pan and let them cook until fragrant before adding some liquid (such as stock or white wine). Reduce the heat and simmer until it has thickened into a sauce. Serve over your fried chicken thighs and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Fried chicken thighs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. For an easy weeknight dinner, serve them with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. If you’re entertaining guests, pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or macaroni and cheese for an impressive presentation. Fried chicken thighs also make for great leftovers – simply store in the refrigerator for up to three days and enjoy as is or reheat before serving.
Why People Should Fry Chicken?
Frying chicken is an easy and delicious way to prepare a meal. Not only is it simple and fast, but it’s also a great way to bring out the natural flavor of the chicken. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, frying chicken thighs in a pan is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Plus, once you learn the basics of how to fry chicken thighs in a pan, you’ll be able to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create new recipes!
Why do People love to Eat Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are an incredibly popular cut of meat – and for good reason. They’re known for their juicy, succulent flavor and texture, as well as the fact that they don’t dry out easily when cooked. Chicken thighs are versatile enough to be used in a wide variety of recipes, from fried chicken to slow-cooked stews. Plus, they cost less than other cuts of chicken, making them budget-friendly!
What Dishes We Can Make With Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are a great option for all kinds of dishes, from classic comfort food to gourmet creations. Some popular dishes made with chicken thighs include skillet fried chicken, creamy chicken marsala, and even Thai-inspired curries. You can also use them in salads or sandwiches, or roast them with various herbs and spices for an easy weeknight dinner. No matter how you choose to prepare your chicken thighs, you’re sure to end up with a delicious meal that everyone will love!
- Creamy chicken marsala: This classic Italian dish is an easy and delicious way to enjoy chicken thighs. Start by sautéing the chicken in a pan with butter, garlic, and mushrooms until golden brown. Then add some Marsala wine, cream, and cooked spaghetti noodles for a rich and creamy meal that will be sure to hit the spot!
- Thai-inspired curry: For a unique take on fried chicken thighs, try making this delicious Thai-inspired curry. Start by marinating your chicken thighs in curry paste or powder before frying them in a pan. Then stir in some coconut milk, lemon juice, fish sauce, and other ingredients of your choice to create a fragrant and flavorful sauce.
- Chicken salad: Fried chicken thighs are great for salads and sandwiches as well. Simply mix cooked, shredded chicken with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and dressing for a delicious and nutritious meal. You can also use the leftovers from your fried chicken thighs to make an amazing chicken salad sandwich!
Pan Fried Boneless Chicken Thighs
Boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative to bone-in thighs, as they cook faster and require less prep time. To pan-fry them, start by coating boneless chicken thighs in oil or butter and seasonings of your choice. Then heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken to the pan. Cook each side until golden brown and cooked through – about 7 minutes per side. Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for an easy weeknight meal!
How Long to Pan Fry Chicken Thighs
The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken thighs, but in general, it should take about 7 minutes per side. Make sure to keep an eye on your chicken and flip it occasionally to ensure even cooking. If you’re using boneless chicken thighs, they may take slightly less time – about 5 minutes per side. Once the internal temperature of your chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s ready to be served!
How To Store
After cooking, give your chicken time to cool completely. Then store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for long-term storage – it will last up to 6 months! To ensure maximum freshness and flavor, place cooled chicken pieces into an airtight container or Ziploc bag before refrigerating or freezing them. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat your delectable chicken either from a frozen state or after thawing – choose between microwaving and stovetop heating methods!
Cooking Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken thighs have reached the correct internal temperature.
- When pan-frying, make sure to heat the oil or butter until it’s hot before adding the chicken pieces – this will help them brown and cook evenly.
- If you’re looking for an extra boost of flavor, try marinating your chicken thighs in herbs and spices beforehand. This will infuse it with delicious aromas while also keeping it moist while cooking.
- For variety, mix up your seasoning ingredients when pan frying – add garlic powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, or any other herbs and spices you enjoy!
Nutrition in Fried Chicken Thighs
Fried chicken thighs are a great source of protein, containing about 20-25 grams per serving. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, niacin, vitamin B6, and phosphorus. However, fried chicken is high in fat – so it’s best to consume it in moderation!
Kind Of Pan to Pan Fry Chicken Thighs
A medium or large skillet works well for pan-frying chicken thighs. Make sure it’s made from heavy-duty material like cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Non-stick pans are also a good option – just make sure to use wooden or silicone utensils when stirring the ingredients!
What To Serve With Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs
This pan-seared chicken recipe is delectable, and it has become a hit with both children and adults alike. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes, or over a salad – the possibilities are endless!
Transform pan-fried chicken thighs into an exquisite dish with a variety of sauces and gravies, such as mushroom gravy, plum coulis, grape glaze, basil pesto, or even the classic soy sauce. The possibilities are endless with this simple seared chicken thigh recipe.
Take your dish to the next level by creating a flavorful sauce for the chicken thighs – adding a splash of chicken broth, wine, or milk/cream to the pan’s fond after cooking and removing the meat!
To achieve the perfect taste, reduce your sauce and cook it at a low simmer for 3-8 minutes or until the liquid is halved. It’s important to wait with salting until you’ve finished cooking since some of the liquid evaporates but salt does not. The flavor will become more intense as you let it boil down!
Best oil
Olive oil, sunflower oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying chicken in a pan. Make sure to use enough oil and heat it until it starts shimmering before adding the chicken pieces. This will ensure that your fried chicken is crispy and golden brown on the outside while being succulent and delicious inside!
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FAQ
Q: What cooking method is best for chicken thighs?
A: Pan-frying is a great cooking method for chicken thighs, as it is quick and easy. Make sure to heat the oil or butter until hot before adding the chicken pieces, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached the correct internal temperature. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also help infuse it with flavor and moisture. Additionally, you can always create sauces for extra flavor! For best results, use olive oil, sunflower oil or peanut oil when pan-frying.
Q: How long will cooked chicken thighs last?
A: Cooked chicken thighs will last up to 5 days in the fridge or 6 months in the freezer. To maximize freshness and flavor, store them in an airtight
Q: What is the trick to frying chicken?
A: To get the perfect fried chicken, it’s important to make sure the oil or butter is hot before adding the chicken pieces. This will ensure they are crispy and golden-brown on the outside while being succulent inside. Additionally, using a thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F will ensure it is cooked through properly. Marinating beforehand can also help infuse extra flavor into your dish! Finally, for best results when pan-frying, use olive oil, sunflower oil or peanut oil.
Q: Is it better to fry chicken with butter or oil?
A: Both butter and oil can be used to fry chicken, with oil generally being preferred. Oil has a higher smoking point than butter and is less likely to burn, making it the better option when pan-frying. However, using some butter in the oil adds extra flavor – just make sure not to let it burn!
Q: How long should you fry chicken?
A: To fry chicken, it will typically take 8-12 minutes to cook through. However, this may vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the heat of your pan. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F for best results! Additionally, be sure not to overcook as this can cause the meat to become dry and tough.
Q: What should I serve with pan-seared chicken thighs?
A: Pan-seared chicken thighs make an excellent main course or side dish – they are delicious served alongside your favorite sides like rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes or over a salad. You can also transform them into an exquisite dish with a variety of
Q: How do restaurants get their chicken so crispy?
A: Restaurants typically achieve crispy chicken by marinating the meat beforehand and double-dipping it in flour before frying. This helps create a flavorful crust that seals in moisture and adds a delicious crunch. Additionally, restaurants use high heat when pan-frying for quick cooking and an extra crisp texture. Finally, to finish off the dish, they often add butter or sauces to give it extra flavor!
Q: What can I do with leftover cooked chicken thighs?
A: Leftover cooked chicken thighs make great additions to salads, soups, tacos, or sandwiches. You can also turn them into casseroles or stir-fries – simply shred the meat and mix it with your favorite vegetables for a tasty meal! Another option is to turn them into a delicious dish by adding sauces or marinades. Finally, you can always freeze your cooked chicken for up to 6 months for later use. No matter what you choose to do, be sure to enjoy it!
Q: Why is my chicken not crispy when I fry it?
A: If your chicken isn’t crispy when you fry it, there are a few possible reasons. First, make sure to use hot oil or butter before adding the chicken pieces – this will help create a flavorful crust and an extra-crispy texture. Additionally, check that the temperature of your pan is high enough for quick cooking but not too hot that it will burn. Finally, double dipping in flour can also help give the fried chicken its signature crunchiness! With these tips in mind, your next batch should be perfectly crisp and delicious!
Conclusion: Delicious Fried Chicken Thighs
Fried chicken thighs are a classic dish that is sure to impress. With this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll be able to make perfectly crispy and juicy fried chicken thighs in no time. Whether you serve them as an entrée or as part of a larger meal, your family and guests will love this mouthwatering dish! Give it a try today and see how simple it can be to create restaurant-quality fried chicken at home. Enjoy!
