Learn how to make stovetop pan seared chicken thighs that are crispy and golden on the outside, and tender & juicy on the inside. Serve with a side of rice, veggies, or a salad for a complete 30-minute flavor-packed meal!
There’s just something so delicious about the crispy outer layer of chicken thighs. We love having a crisp bite followed quickly by a tender and juicy center. It’s the perfect balance for creating a dinner that everyone will love coming back to for more. Plus, chicken thighs are packed with protein so they make a delicious dinner option too!
This method for cooking chicken thighs is super easy and will become your new favorite method for cooking chicken thighs. The result is a crispy crunchy exterior and tender juicy interior. These delicious chicken thighs can be enjoyed on their own or paired up with a killer side dish, too.
What you will Need: To make these delicious chicken thighs you will only need a handful of pantry staple spices, a teaspoon of oil and skin-on-bone chicken thighs.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Thighs on the Stovetop
Making crispy chicken thighs on the stovetop is super easy and effortless!
To begin, whisk all the spices in a small bowl and generously season the chicken. Feel free to mix up the spices as desired.
Next, cook the chicken in a hot lightly oiled pan, skin side down, for 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low-medium and cook for another 20 minutes. Flip and cool for an additional 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (to 170F) and the skin is golden and crispy!
How do I know that the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to tell that the chicken is cooked through is to test the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Insert the meat thermometer into a thick portion of the chicken but away from the bone. As long as the reading says at least 170 degrees, the chicken should be safe to remove and eat.
What side dishes go well with chicken thighs?
These crispy chicken thighs pair with just about anything you can imagine. Steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, side salads, or rice. These crispy oven-roasted potatoes or roasted broccoli are also delicious side options.
How to store leftover chicken thighs
The easiest way to store leftovers is to let the chicken cool completely and then store it in an airtight container. It needs to be kept in the fridge and should be consumed within 2-3 days.
How to reheat leftover chicken
To reheat the leftover chicken, you can reheat it in the oven, the microwave, or even pop it in the air fryer if you want the crispy skin texture.
More Delicious Ways to Cook Chicken Thighs
Pan Seared Crispy Skin Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 5-6 Chicken thighs, Bone in, skin on
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp EACH garlic powder, onion powder, italian seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil
Instructions
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Whisk the spices in a small bowl and season both sides of the chicken with the spice mix.
- Heat oil in a large heavy-duty cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs, skin-side down for 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and cook and let chicken cook, undisturbed for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the skin side.
- Flip and cook on the other side for 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 170F.
Equipment
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
