How Long to Fry Chicken Thighs (Tips & Guides)

Chicken thighs are a delicious and economical choice for your next meal, but since you’re expecting some crispiness on the outside, you may be wondering just how long to fry them in order to get the optimal result.

If you’re wondering how long to fry chicken thighs for optimal flavor and texture, you’re in luck this blog post will provide all the information you need to make delicious fried chicken at home.

From what temperature to heat your oil at, how thick or thin should they be cut and even tips on achieving maximum crunchy texture like a pro by the end of this post, you’ll know everything there is to know about getting perfect fried chicken thighs every time!

Chicken Thighs Nutrition Facts

Before we discuss how long to fry chicken thighs, it’s important to take a look at the nutrition facts for chicken thighs.

Chicken thighs are typically higher in fat than other cuts of chicken such as breast or wings, however this doesn’t mean that they don’t have their own health benefits. Chicken thigh meat is considered a high quality protein source and also contains many antioxidants and vitamins that promote good health.

Nutrition-wise, chicken thighs contain plenty of B vitamins, zinc, iron, selenium and vitamin A, making them an ideal choice if you are looking to boost your energy levels while still getting adequate nutrition. They may be on the fattier side compared to other cuts of chicken, but they are still a good source of protein and nutrients.

How Long to Fry Chicken Thighs

Now that we’ve looked at the nutrition facts, let’s move on to how long to fry chicken thighs.

To start with, you will need to heat your oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. The temperature should be 350 degrees F, which is hot enough to ensure your chicken thighs cook evenly and get a nice crispy crust.

Next, cut your chicken thighs into thin strips of about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook more quickly and achieve maximum crunchy texture when fried properly. Once you have your strips ready, carefully place them into the oil one at a time so that they don’t stick together or clump up in the pan.

Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then flip them over and do the same to the other side. Again, make sure that you don’t overcrowd your pan or they won’t cook properly. You may have to fry them in batches depending on how many thighs you have.

Once they are done cooking, place them onto a paper towel lined plate to drain any excess oil and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

In summary, in order to get the most delicious and crunchy chicken thighs you need to heat your oil over medium-high heat at 350 degrees F. You should then cut the chicken into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Finally, place them onto a paper towel lined plate to drain any excess oil and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.​

If you want perfect fried chicken every time, keep these tips in mind when cooking chicken thighs!​

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the time required to fry boneless skinless chicken thighs will depend on a number of factors. These can include the size and thickness of your chicken thighs, the temperature at which you are frying them, and the type of oil or fat that you are using.

Generally, it is recommended that you heat your oil over medium-high heat at 350 degrees F and fry your chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. It may be necessary to fry them in batches depending on how many thighs you have, so be sure to keep an eye on them while they are cooking.

Additionally, some tips for achieving maximum crunchy texture when frying chicken thighs include cutting them into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick and not overcrowding the pan so that they can cook evenly. To finish, it is important to drain off any excess oil from your chicken thighs using a paper towel-lined plate once they are done cooking and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.​

How Long to Pan Fry Boneless Chicken Thighs

When pan frying boneless chicken thighs, you will need to begin by heating your oil or fat over medium-high heat. The temperature should be between 350 and 375 degrees F, which is hot enough to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice golden brown crust.

Next, you will need to cut your chicken thighs into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick so that they cook more quickly and achieve maximum crunchy texture when fried. Once your strips are ready, carefully place them in the pan one at a time so that they do not stick together or clump up.

For best results, it is recommended that you fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches depending on the number of chicken thighs that you are cooking, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they are frying.

Once your chicken thighs are done cooking, you should drain off any excess oil using a paper towel-lined plate and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy perfect pan-fried boneless chicken thighs every time!

How Long to fry Chicken Thighs at 350 Degrees

When frying chicken thighs at 350 degrees, the cooking time will depend on a number of factors, including the size and thickness of your chicken thighs, the type of oil or fat that you are using, and the temperature at which you are frying them.

Generally, it is recommended that you heat your oil over medium-high heat to 350 degrees F and fry your chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches depending on how many thighs you have, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they are cooking and adjust the temperature if necessary.

Some tips for achieving perfectly crisp and crunchy chicken thighs when frying include cutting them into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick, not overcrowding the pan so that they can cook evenly, and draining off any excess oil from your chicken thighs using a paper towel-lined plate once they are done cooking. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy perfectly fried chicken thighs at 350 degrees every time!

How Long to fry Chicken Thighs at 375 Degrees

When frying chicken thighs at a temperature of 375 degrees, the cooking time will depend on several factors. These can include the size and thickness of your chicken thighs, the type of oil or fat that you are using, and the temperature of your fryer.

To begin, it is recommended that you heat your oil over medium-high heat to a temperature between 350 and 375 degrees F. This is hot enough to ensure even cooking and a nice golden brown crust on your chicken thighs.

Next, you will need to cut your chicken thighs into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick so that they cook quickly and get maximum crispiness when fried. Depending on how many thighs you are cooking at once, it may be necessary to do this in batches.

When your chicken thighs are ready, carefully place them in the pan one at a time and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the temperature of your oil if they seem to be cooking too quickly or slowly, so be sure to keep an eye on them as they are frying.

Once your chicken thighs are done cooking, you should drain off any excess oil using a paper towel-lined plate and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy perfectly crisp and crunchy chicken thighs every time when frying at 375 degrees!

How to Fry Chicken Thighs​

Now that we have covered the nutritional benefits of fried chicken thighs, let’s take a look at how to fry them for a delicious meal. The key to getting crispy, delicious chicken is to start with high-quality ingredients, including fresh chicken and healthy oil like olive oil or coconut oil.

First decide whether you want bone-in thighs or boneless thighs for your batch of fried chicken – both will taste great when cooked properly! Then be sure to use an accurate thermometer so that you can monitor the correct temperature as you cook each piece so your results come out perfectly every time.

To cook bone-in chicken thighs, heat oil in a large skillet to 375 degrees F. Once the oil is hot, add individual pieces of chicken thigh skin side down and cook until lightly golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes per side. Then remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes before serving so that the juices can redistribute within each piece of meat.

Since boneless chicken thighs are smaller than bone-in thighs, you’ll need to adjust your cooking time accordingly – typically they will take just 3 to 4 minutes per side to achieve optimal golden color and crispy exterior while still allowing the inside of each piece of meat to stay moist and tender.

Another tip for making delicious fried chicken thighs at home is to pat your chicken dry before adding it to the hot oil, this will help reduce splatter and sizzling while you cook. You also want to make sure that your oil is not too cold or too hot, otherwise your meat may turn out undercooked or overcooked.

It’s best to follow a recipe when cooking fried chicken at home, but if you are looking for more general guidelines then remember the following tips: heat the oil until it reaches 350 degrees F, frying each piece of chicken about 5 minutes per side for bone-in thighs and 3 to 4 minutes per side for boneless thighs, and avoid crowding the pan since this will lower the temperature of your oil and cause your chicken to cook unevenly.

How To Pan Fry Chicken Thighs

With the right technique, you can easily fry chicken thighs in a pan to get deliciously crispy, golden brown results every time. Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Once your oil is hot, add your chicken thighs to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on all sides. You may need to do this in batches if you are cooking a lot of chicken at once.

Then, drain off any excess oil using a paper towel-lined plate and serve with your favorite dipping sauce or condiments. Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, this simple method will help you achieve perfectly cooked fried chicken that’s delicious and satisfying.

How to Fry Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

If you want a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken, try using an air fryer for your chicken thighs. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375 degrees F and adding a layer of cooking spray or oil to the basket.

Next, place your chicken thighs in the pan and cook for about 15 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and crispy on the outside. Drain off any excess oil from the thighs and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or condiments.

With these tips in mind, you can easily enjoy perfectly cooked chicken thighs every time when frying in an air fryer! Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner idea or just something tasty to snack on, this method is sure to become a go-to in your home.​

How To Know If Chicken Thighs Is Done

One of the most important things to know when cooking chicken thighs is how to tell if it’s done. While different cuts, cooking methods, and recipes will all have slightly different timing suggestions, as a general rule you should cook chicken thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

This can be easily determined by using a meat thermometer or cut into the middle of one piece of chicken thigh with a sharp knife to check for any pinkness or raw spots. If your chicken is not fully cooked through after this time, simply return it to the pan and continue cooking until it is fully cooked.

Once your chicken thighs are done, remove them from the heat and let them rest for about 5-7 minutes before the next by final step.

How To Choose Chicken Thighs to Fry Chicken Thighs

One of the most important things to know when choosing chicken thighs is how to select quality, high-quality chicken. When shopping for chicken thighs at the grocery store or butcher shop, look for cuts that have a bright, vibrant color and are free from any discoloration or dark spots.

Additionally, you should choose chicken thighs that are firm and spring back slightly when pressed with your fingers. Avoid buying any cut of chicken that has a strong or unpleasant odor or appears slimy or wet on the surface.

To ensure you’re getting fresh and delicious chicken thighs every time, it’s always best to speak with your local butcher about their recommendations and sourcing practices. With these tips in mind, you can feel confident in choosing the best chicken thighs for your recipes and cooking needs!​

Overall, there are many factors to consider when choosing chicken thighs. Some key considerations include looking for cuts that have a bright, vibrant color, avoiding any discolored or dark spots, and selecting chicken thighs that are firm and spring back slightly when you press them with your fingers. Additionally, it’s important to choose high-quality poultry that is fresh and doesn’t have an unpleasant odor or slimy surface. To ensure you’re getting the best possible chicken thighs every time, be sure to speak with your local butcher about their recommendations and sourcing practices. With these tips in mind, you can confidently choose the best chicken thighs for all of your cooking needs!​

How To Prepare Chicken Thighs for Frying

One of the most important steps in frying chicken thighs is to properly prepare the meat. This can be done by thoroughly washing and drying your raw chicken thighs, trimming away any excess fat or skin, and cutting them into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Once your chicken thighs are prepped, you can start heating up your oil or cooking spray in an air fryer basket. Next, work in small batches to add the chicken to the pan and cook until crispy and golden brown on each side.

With these tips in mind, you can easily prepare and fry your chicken thighs with confidence! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea or something tasty to snack on, this method is sure, lunch, and dinner.

How to Store Chicken Thighs

Once you’ve cooked and stored your chicken thighs, it’s important to know how to properly store them in the refrigerator. To do this, place your cooked chicken thighs in an air-tight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

This will help prevent any spoilage and keep your chicken thighs tasting fresh, delicious, and flavorful!

Overall, there are many different options for storing your cooked chicken thighs. Some key factors to consider when deciding on which storage method is best for you include the size of your cooked meat and whether or not it has been marinated or seasoned.

Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that whatever method you choose will keep the meat at a safe temperature, ideally below 40°F. With these tips in mind, you can feel confident storing and preserving your chicken thighs for later use, whether it’s for meal prep or an easy dinner idea.

Whether you’re looking to cook up some quick and easy weeknight dinners or enjoy a tasty snack on the go, knowing how to store and preserve your chicken thighs is essential. To do this, be sure to wash, dry, season or marinade your raw chicken thighs before storing them in an air-tight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. With these simple tips in mind, you can confidently store and maintain the quality of your cooked chicken thighs every time!​

How to Reheat Chicken Thighs

One of the most important things to keep in mind when reheating your chicken thighs is to make sure that they are cooked to a safe internal temperature. This can be done by using a meat thermometer and cooking the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F.

When you’re ready to heat up your chicken, simply place the thighs on a lightly greased baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven for 10-15 minutes.

With these tips in mind, you can easily and safely reheat your chicken thighs for any meal or snack! Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a delicious way to use up leftover meat, this method will help you enjoy the great taste and texture of your chicken thighs each and every time.

Overall, there are many different ways to reheat pre-cooked chicken thighs. Some key factors to consider when heating up your chicken thighs at home include the size of the meat, whether or not it has been seasoned or marinated, and whether you are planning on serving the leftovers right away or later in the week.

When reheating already cooked and chilled chicken thighs, be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that they have reached an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F.

What to Serve with Chicken Thighs

There are many different ways to enjoy chicken thighs, whether as a standalone protein source or paired with sides and other ingredients. Some delicious options for serving with your cooked chicken thighs include rice, potatoes, roasted veggies, pasta, non-starchy side salads, and more.

You can also spice up the flavor of your chicken by marinating it beforehand in your favorite rubs or sauces. Additionally, if you’re looking for something to pair with your chicken this weeknight dinner idea is perfect!

With these tips in mind, you can easily and confidently cook up some tasty chicken thighs at home. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to make or a flavorful dish that everyone will love, there are endless options for enjoying this delicious and versatile protein source.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When to Fry Chicken Thighs

1. Not properly washing your chicken thighs before cooking. If you’re frying your chicken, it’s essential to first wash and dry the meat thoroughly to avoid any contamination or food-borne illnesses.

2. Overcooking the chicken. Cooking your chicken thighs at too high of a temperature or for too long can lead to overcooking and making them tough and chewy. Instead, be sure to monitor the internal temperature of the meat and remove it from heat once it has reached 165 degrees F.

3. Using an oil that is not suited for frying. Different oils have different smoke points, meaning that they are best used at certain temperatures or will burn quickly if overheated. When frying your chicken thighs, use an oil such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil that has a high smoke point and will not burn easily.

4. Using a pan that is too small. If the chicken thighs are crowded in the pan, they may not cook evenly, leading to some parts being overcooked and others undercooked. Select a large frying pan with plenty of space around each piece of chicken to ensure even cooking throughout all sides of the meat.

5. Not seasoning your chicken thighs beforehand. Adding salt and pepper or other spices to your chicken before frying it can help develop rich flavors and add texture to your meat. Try experimenting with different flavors to find a combination you love!

When preparing fried chicken thighs at home, it’s important to be mindful of common mistakes and take steps to avoid them. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you are cooking up perfectly crispy, juicy chicken every time. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or whipping up a batch for a party or potluck, fried chicken thighs are always sure to please!

Some Chicken Thighs Recipes:

1. Lemon-Garlic Chicken Thighs: This easy 30-minute recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Simply combine butter, chicken thighs, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat until the thighs are golden brown and fully cooked through.

2. Korean BBQ Chicken Thighs: For a bold and flavorful dish that’s packed with umami flavor, try this Korean BBQ chicken thigh recipe! Mix together soy sauce, honey, sriracha sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger root, black pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl before dredging your seasoned chicken thighs in the mixture. Pan-fry the chicken thighs until full cooked through and serve over rice or with other favorite sides.

3. Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: Looking for a healthier alternative to pan-fried chicken? Try this simple baked chicken thigh recipe! Season your chicken thighs with salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper before baking them in the oven at 425 degrees F for 25 minutes. Pro tip: Make sure to let your cooked chicken thighs rest for several minutes before digging in so that they stay juicy and flavorful!

Whether you’re craving something savory and spicy or something more sweet and tangy, there are countless delicious ways to enjoy cooking up chicken thighs at home. With these simple recipes in your repertoire, you can enjoy the perfect fried chicken dinner any day of the week!

FAQs:

How to fry chicken thighs in a pan

1. Wash and dry your chicken thighs thoroughly to avoid any contamination or food-borne illnesses.

2. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and add some oil or butter to the bottom of the pan.

3. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs into the pan and cook for several minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

4. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature of the meat as it cooks, removing it from heat when it reaches 165 degrees F.

5. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, or other spices before cooking if desired, and enjoy!

How long to fry chicken thighs bone-in

There is no definitive answer to this question, as cooking time will depend on a number of factors including the thickness and size of your chicken thighs, the temperature of your oil or butter, and the amount being cooked. Generally, you will want to cook bone-in chicken thighs over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes per side, or until the meat is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F. You may need to adjust cooking time depending on the exact conditions in which you are preparing your chicken.

How long does it take for a chicken thigh to fry?

The cooking time for fried chicken thighs will depend on a number of factors, including the size and thickness of your chicken thighs, the temperature of your oil or butter, and the amount being cooked. In general, you should be able to cook bone-in skinless chicken thighs in a large frying pan over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes per side or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F. You may need to adjust cooking time depending on the exact conditions in which you are preparing your chicken.

How long does it take to fry a boneless skinless chicken thigh?

The time it takes to fry a boneless skinless chicken thigh varies, depending on various factors. Some of the key factors that can influence the amount of time it takes include the thickness of the chicken thigh, the size and temperature of the frying pan or skillet, and whether or not you are using an oil with a high smoke point. In general, it will usually take somewhere between 10 and 15 minutes to fry a boneless skinless chicken thigh. However, if you want it to be extra crispy, you may need to cook it for longer.

One of the best ways to ensure your chicken thighs are cooked through evenly is to use an instant-read thermometer. For best results, make sure your chicken thighs are completely thawed before you begin cooking them. Also, be sure to pat them dry before adding them to the pan so that they sear properly and cook evenly throughout. If you follow these simple steps while frying boneless skinless chicken thighs, you should have tender, juicy chicken every time!

How long does it take for chicken thighs to cook?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the amount of time it takes to cook chicken thighs will vary depending on a number of factors. Some of the key factors that can influence the cooking time include the thickness and size of your chicken thighs, the temperature and type of frying pan or skillet you are using, and how long you leave your chicken thighs in the pan. In general, it will usually take somewhere between 10 and 15 minutes to cook a boneless skinless chicken thigh, but this can vary significantly depending on the specific recipe you are following or the cooking method you use.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs are a great option for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. When frying chicken thighs, remember to use a high heat oil and cook for about 8 minutes per side. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the meat before serving to ensure it is cooked through.

How long to fry chicken thighs? Until they’re golden brown and cooked through! Follow our easy steps for the perfect fried chicken, every time. If you want even more flavor, try our buttermilk marinade or herb-seasoned breading recipes. Whatever seasoning you choose, we guarantee delicious results.