Easy Skillet Chicken Thighs
These skillet chicken thighs deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The chicken thighs are cooked in a skillet to achieve crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat. This recipe is perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron recommended)
- Small bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Paper towels
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4-6 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs about 1.5-2 lbs total
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- Optional: Lemon slices
- Optional: Butter for basting
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Resist the urge to move them around!
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until they are lightly browned.
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy!
- If you want to add extra flavor, baste the chicken with a little butter during the last few minutes of baking.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is very dry before seasoning. Don't overcrowd the pan to allow for proper browning. Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave. To re-crisp the skin, reheat in the skillet. Try flavor variations like Lemon Herb, Spicy, Honey Garlic, BBQ, or Mushroom Gravy.