Crispy Skillet Chicken Thighs
This dish features bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs cooked in a hot skillet to achieve a crackly, golden skin and tender, juicy meat. The simple seasoning of salt and pepper, combined with slow searing from a cold pan, creates a quick and satisfying main course with irresistible texture and flavor.
Print
Pin
Calories: 350kcal
Servings: 4
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed skillet
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Paper Towels
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1 tsp salt generous seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tbsp olive oil or duck fat for searing
- 3 cloves garlic smashed
- a few sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary optional, added at the end
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up nicely. Season generously all over with salt and pepper.
- Place a heavy-bottomed skillet on medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or duck fat. Let the oil warm up gently—this prevents sticking and encourages even searing.
- Lay the chicken thighs skin-side down into the cold skillet, pressing gently to ensure full contact with the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, watching the skin turn a deep, golden, crackly hue as it crisps up.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs using tongs, then cook for another 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). The meat should be juicy and tender, with the skin remaining crispy.
- During the last minute of cooking, add the smashed garlic cloves and herbs to the pan. Let their aroma fill the air as the garlic develops a fragrant, smoky scent.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice or splash vinegar over the rested chicken to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the crispy skin and tender meat.
- Serve the chicken thighs hot, with the crackly skin and tender meat on full display—perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Nutrition
Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 125mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 400mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1.5mg