Are you wondering how long to boil chicken thighs? You’re not alone. This is a common question, and the answer can vary depending on who you ask. If you are looking for an easy, healthy meal option, chicken thighs are a great choice.
Whether you’re cooking chicken thighs for the first time or you’re just looking to make sure you’re doing it correctly, learning “how long does it take to boil chicken thighs” is essential.
Contrary to what some might believe, boiling chicken is a healthy and easy way to cook your poultry. With just a few minutes of prep work and a pot of boiling water, you can have tender and juicy chicken thighs in no time at all.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how long to boil chicken thighs so that they turn out just perfect every time and the different methods for boiling chicken thighs.
We’ll also share some tips for ensuring that your chicken thighs turn out cooked through and juicy. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly “how long do you boil chicken thighs” so that they are perfectly tender and flavorful every time.
How Long To Boil Chicken Thighs?
To boil boneless chicken thighs:
If your chicken thighs are boneless and skinless, they will cook more quickly than if they were bone-in or had the skin on. On average, for 5 pieces (about 2.2 pounds or 1kg), it should take about 10-15 minutes to boil boneless chicken thighs (apply to the fresh chicken thigh and not frozen). It’s important to note that if you will be shredding the chicken, it needs an additional 5 minutes of cooking time so it’s very tender and quick when shredding.
To boil bone-in chicken thighs:
Bone-in chicken thighs will take slightly longer to cook than boneless chicken thighs. On average, for 5 pieces (about 2.2 lbs or 1kilogram), it should take about 15-20 minutes to boil bone-in chicken thighs (using fresh chicken thighs or fully thawed). Once your chicken is cooked through, be sure to remove it from the pot of boiling water immediately so that it does not continue to cook.
As you can see, the boiling time for chicken thighs can range depending on whether they are bone-in or boneless.
It’s important to note that these cooking times are estimates and your chicken may take less or more time to cook through depending on the size and thickness of your chicken thighs.
The best way to know for sure if your chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is cooked and safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
How Long To Boil Frozen Chicken Thighs?
If you’re wondering how to cook chicken thighs from frozen, the answer is that you can boil them straight from frozen. There is no need to thaw your chicken first. However, the cooking time will be longer by 50% than if you’re starting with fresh or thawed chicken.
For bone-in frozen chicken thighs, we recommend boiling them for 40-50 minutes to ensure they are cooked all the way through. If you’re using boneless frozen chicken thighs, you’ll need to boil them for about 35-45 minutes.
Tips: The key to getting the most out of your frozen chicken thighs is ensuring they’re cooked in a single layer and completely separate, not clumped together.
Why Should You Boil Chicken Thighs?
Boiling chicken thighs is a healthy and easy way to cook your poultry. There are many benefits to boiling chicken thighs:
First, boiling chicken is a low-calorie cooking method. There is no need to add oil or butter when boiling chicken, making it a healthier option than frying or sautéing.
Second, boiling chicken helps to retain the nutrients in the meat. When you boil chicken, the water that the meat cooks contain vitamins and minerals that are leached out of the meat. These nutrients are then absorbed back into the meat as it cooks, making boiled chicken a more nutrient-dense option than other methods of cooking.
Third, boiling chicken is a fast and easy way to cook your meat. It requires very little prep time and can be done in just a few minutes. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you don’t have time to cook a complicated meal.
Fourth, boiling chicken results in tender and juicy meat. When done correctly, boiled chicken thighs will be cooked through but still moist and flavorful.
Finally, boiling chicken is a versatile cooking method. You can add different spices or herbs to the water to flavor the meat as it cooks. You can also use the boiled chicken in a variety of recipes, such as salads, soups, or casseroles.
How To Prepare Chicken Thighs?
1. Wash your chicken thighs under cold water and remove any excess fat.
2. Cut the chicken thighs into even pieces if they are not uniform in size. This will help them cook evenly.
3. If you’re using boneless chicken thighs, there is no need to do any prep work. Simply place the chicken in a pot of water and let it cook.
4. If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, you’ll need to remove the skin before cooking. To do this, simply use a sharp knife to score the skin around the thigh. Be careful not to cut into the meat itself. Once the skin is scored, you should be able to easily peel it off of the meat.
5. Once your chicken is prepped, add it to a pot of boiling water. Be sure to add enough water to cover the chicken completely.
Safety Tips When Dealing With Raw Chicken
1. Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling raw chicken.
2. Be sure to clean all surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken, including countertops, cutting boards, and knives.
3. Use a separate cutting board for raw chicken and other foods.
4. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw chicken separate from other food items in your kitchen.
5. If you’re using a marinade, be sure to discard any that came into contact with raw chicken.
How To Season Chicken Thighs?
1. One of the great things about boiling chicken is that it’s a blank canvas for seasoning. You can add any herbs or spices you like to the water to flavor the chicken as it cooks. Some good options include garlic, onion, bay leaves, or thyme.
2. If you want to keep things simple, you can also just season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
3. If you’re using frozen chicken thighs, we recommend adding a bouillon cube to the water to help give the chicken additional flavor.
4. Once your chicken is cooked, you can also season it with additional spices or sauces as desired.
5. Boiled chicken can be served as is or used in a variety of recipes. Some popular options include salads, soups, and casseroles.
How To Boil Chicken Thighs Perfectly?
Now that we’ve gone over all the basics of boiling chicken thighs, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to do it. The best way to boil chicken thighs is to place them in a pot of cold water and bring the water to a boil. This will help ensure that the meat cooks evenly and prevents it from drying out. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to boil chicken thighs:
1. Add your chicken thighs to a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken by 1-2 inches.
3. Add salt and any other spices or herbs you want to flavor the meat.
4. Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat.
5. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes for boneless chicken or 15-20 minutes for bone-in chicken.
6. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate or cutting board to rest.
8. Allow the chicken to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it or using it in your desired recipe. Enjoy!
As you can see, boiling chicken thighs is a simple and straightforward process. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time so that your chicken doesn’t become overcooked and dry.
How To Boil Chicken Thighs Faster?
If you’re short on time, there are a few ways you can speed up the boiling process.
One method is to cut the chicken into smaller pieces before cooking. This will reduce the overall cooking time since the chicken will have a larger surface area exposed to the water. Additionally, you can cook the chicken at a higher temperature. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t become overcooked.
Another option is to bring the pot of water to a boil before adding the chicken. This will reduce the overall cooking time by a few minutes. This method is not recommended, however, as it can cause the chicken to dry out. If you do choose to use this method, be sure to reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Finally, you can also use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to cook your chicken thighs. This method is extremely fast. Just be sure to follow the instructions that come with your pressure cooker so that you don’t overcook the chicken.
Alternative Methods To Boil Chicken Thighs
While boiling chicken thighs is the easiest and most fool-proof method, there are a few other methods you can use to cook your poultry. Here are a few alternative methods for cooking chicken thighs:
1. Microwave: Place your chicken thighs in a microwave-safe dish and add water so that the chicken is covered by 1-2 inches. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then check the internal temperature of the chicken. Continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Slow cooker: Place the chicken thighs in your slow cooker and add 1-2 cups of water or chicken broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Instant Pot: Place your chicken thighs in the insert of an Instant Pot and add 1-2 cups of water or chicken broth. Set the pot to “manual” mode and cook for 6-8 minutes at high pressure, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Quick-release any remaining pressure and remove the chicken from the
4. Steaming: Steaming is a healthy and low-calorie cooking method that is perfect for cooking boneless, skinless chicken thighs. To steam chicken thighs, place them on a steamer basket or rack them over a pot of boiling water. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked through before removing it from the steamer.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to cook your chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety.
Tips For Boiling Perfect Chicken Thighs
Here are a few tips to help you master the art of boiling chicken thighs:
1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs before cooking. This will help to flavor the meat as it cooks.
2. Be sure to add enough water to cover the chicken by 1-2 inches. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents it from drying out.
3. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Don’t forget to remove the chicken from the pot as soon as it is cooked through so that it does not continue to cook in the hot water.
5. Let your chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it so that the juices can redistribute. This will result in juicier chicken.
6. When cutting the chicken, be sure to cut against the grain. This will help prevent the chicken from shredding.
With these tips, you’ll be a pro at boiling chicken thighs in no time! So go ahead and give it a try the next time you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to cook chicken.
How Do Troubleshoot Common Problems When Boiling Chicken Thighs?
1. If your chicken is overcooked and dry
The most common problem people have when boiling chicken is that it becomes overcooked and dry. This can happen for a few reasons, such as using too high of heat, cooking for too long, or not adding enough liquid to the pot. To avoid this problem, be sure to use low or moderate heat and cook the chicken for the recommended amount of time. You should also make sure that you add enough water or broth to the pot so that the chicken is covered by 1-2 inches.
2. If your chicken is undercooked
If your chicken is undercooked, it may be because you didn’t cook it long enough, didn’t use enough heat, or added too much liquid to the pot. To fix this problem, be sure to cook the chicken for the recommended amount of time and use high heat so that the water comes to a boil quickly. You should also make sure that you don’t add too much liquid to the pot so that the chicken has room to cook properly.
3. If your chicken is tough
If your chicken is tough, it may be because you overcooked it or used too much heat. To avoid this problem, be sure to use low or moderate heat and cook the chicken for the recommended amount of time. You can also try tenderizing the meat with a marinade before cooking.
4. If your chicken is rubbery
If your chicken is rubbery, it may be because you undercooked it or didn’t use enough heat. To fix this problem, be sure to cook the chicken for the recommended amount of time and use high heat so that the water comes to a boil quickly. You should also make sure that you don’t add too much liquid to the pot so that the chicken has room to cook properly.
5. If your chicken is bland
If your chicken is bland, it may be because you didn’t add enough seasoning to the water or didn’t use poultry seasoning. To fix this problem, be sure to add salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to the water before cooking the chicken. You can also try adding other aromatics like onion, garlic, or herbs to the pot.
How To Tell If Chicken Thighs Are Done?
The best way to tell if chicken thighs are done is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can also tell if the chicken is cooked through by checking to see if the juices run clear. If the juices are still pink, the chicken needs to be cooked for longer.
Finally, you can tell if chicken thighs are done by cutting into one of them. If the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear, then the chicken is cooked through. If there is any pink remaining, it needs to cook for a few minutes longer.
What To Do With Boiled Chicken Thighs?
There are many different ways that you can use boiled chicken. Some popular options include using it in salads, soups, or casseroles. You can also shred the chicken and use it in tacos or burritos.
Another great way to use boiled chicken is to make homemade chicken stock. This is a great way to use up any leftover chicken bones or meat that you have. Simply add the chicken bones or meat to a pot of water and simmer for several hours. Strain the broth and store it in the fridge or freezer for future use.
How To Store and Freeze Boiled Chicken Thighs?
If you have any leftover chicken, it can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. The best way to store it is to place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
You can also freeze boiled chicken for up to four months. To do this, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and use it within four days.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Thighs?
The best way to reheat chicken thighs is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Another option is to reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stove over low heat. Place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to add a little bit of water or chicken broth to the pot so that the chicken doesn’t dry out.
If you’re short on time, you can also reheat the chicken in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes on a 50% power, or until the chicken is heated through.
Boiled Chicken Thighs (How To Boil Chicken Thighs On The Stove)
Equipment:
– A pot large enough to fit all the chicken thighs
– A lid for the pot
– A spoon or tongs for stirring
– A plate or cutting board
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of chicken thighs,bone-in or boneless, skin on or off (5-6 thighs)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Water
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
Instructions:
1) Place the chicken thighs in the pot and add enough water to cover them.
2) Add the olive oil, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to the pot.
3) Stir everything together and bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat.
4) Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and boil for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5) After the chicken thighs are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the chicken cool in the liquid for 5-10 minutes.
6) Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a plate or cutting board.
7) Enjoy your boiled chicken thighs!
Nutrition Facts
(per serving size)
-Calories: 210
-Fat: 13 g
-Saturated fat: 3 g
-Cholesterol: 121 mg
-Sodium: 476 mg
-Carbohydrates: 0 g
-Protein: 24 g
-Vitamin A: 4%
-Calcium: 2%
-Iron: 10%
FAQs Of How Long To Boil Chicken Thighs
1. Can you over boil chicken?
If you boil chicken for too long, it will become overcooked and dry. The best way to tell if the chicken is overcooked is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. How long to boil chicken thighs so it falls apart?
If you want the chicken thighs to fall apart, you will need to boil them for a longer period of time. Boil the chicken thighs for 30-40 minutes or until it is cooked through.
3. Can you drink boiled chicken water?
The water that chicken is boiled in is called chicken broth. Chicken broth is a healthy and nutritious drink that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for soups and stews.
4. What is the white stuff that comes out of chicken thighs when boiling?
The white stuff that comes out of chicken thighs when boiling is called albumin. Albumin is a protein found in chicken and other meats. When meat is cooked, the proteins denature and coagulate, which causes the albumin to become firm and white.
5. How long does boiled chicken last?
Properly stored, the boiled chicken will last for 3-4 days in the fridge or 3-4 months in the freezer. Boiled chicken can be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
6. Does chicken thighs get more tender if you boil them longer?
No, chicken thighs will not get more tender if you boil them longer. Chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. boiling the chicken for too long will result in dry and overcooked chicken.
7. How do you make boiled chicken less bland?
There are a few ways to make boiled chicken less bland. One way is to add some spices or herbs to the water before boiling the chicken. Another way is to cook the chicken in chicken broth instead of water. You can also add some vegetables to the pot while boiling the chicken, such as carrots, celery, or onions. Finally, you can finish the chicken by sauteing it in a little bit of oil after it has been boiled.
8. Can I leave the skin on the chicken thighs?
Yes, you can leave the skin on the chicken thighs when boiling them. The skin will help to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. However, if you are watching your fat intake, you may want to remove the skin before eating.
9. Should I rinse the chicken thighs before cooking them?
No, you should not rinse the chicken thighs before cooking them. Rinsing the chicken will not remove all of the bacteria and could actually spread the bacteria around your kitchen. It is best to cook the chicken without rinsing it first.
10. How to get crispy skin on boiled chicken thighs?
If you want to get crispy skin on boiled chicken thighs, the best way to do it is to broil them for a few minutes after cooking.
To do this, preheat your oven’s broiler setting and place the chicken thighs on a wire rack that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Be sure to watch the chicken closely so that it doesn’t overcook.
Another way to get crispy skin on boiled chicken thighs is to fry them in a pan after they have been cooked.
To do this, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs to the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Be sure to flip the chicken thighs so that they cook evenly on both sides.
11. Do you have to boil chicken thighs before frying them?
No, you don’t have to boil chicken thighs before frying them. Boiling chicken thighs helps to tenderize the meat and make it easier to fry, but it’s not necessary. If you choose not to boil the chicken thighs, it will just take a little longer to cook through in the pan.
12. Do I need to use salt when boiling chicken?
No, you do not need to use salt when boiling chicken. The chicken will release some of its own natural juices while it is cooking, which will add flavor to the water. If you are concerned about sodium intake, you can always boil the chicken without salt and add salt to taste after it has been cooked.
12. How many cups of water do I need to boil chicken thighs?
For every pound (450g) of chicken, you will need 1 cup (240ml) of water. So, if you are boiling 2 pounds (900g) of chicken thighs, you will need 2 cups (480ml) of water.
13. What to serve with boiled chicken thighs?
Some common sides that go well with boiled chicken thighs are mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, and rice. You can also try serving the chicken with a salad or a simple pasta dish.
15. Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe. Just be sure to increase the cooking time by a few minutes since the frozen chicken will take longer to cook through.
16. Can I freeze boiled chicken?
Yes, you can freeze boiled chicken. The boiled chicken will keep fresh in the freezer for up to 4 months. Be sure to store the chicken in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
17. What are some recipes using boiled chicken thighs?
Some recipes using boiled chicken thighs are:
– Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
– Chicken Pot Pie
– Chicken and Rice Soup
– Chicken Salad
– Thai Chicken Curry
– Chicken Noodle Soup
18. Are boiled chicken thighs healthy?
Yes, boiled chicken thighs are a healthy option. Chicken is a lean protein that is low in saturated fat and high in several essential nutrients. When boiled, chicken also retains its moisture, making it an even healthier option.
19. Do you cover chicken thighs when boiling?
It is not necessary to cover chicken thighs when boiling them. However, if you choose to cover the chicken, it will cook faster.
20. Can chicken thighs be a little pink?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a little pink. This is perfectly normal and does not mean that the chicken is undercooked. The pink color is due to the presence of myoglobin, which is a protein that gives meat its red color. When cooked, myoglobin turns white, which is why chicken breasts are typically white in color.
21. How long to boil chicken thighs for soup?
If you are boiling chicken thighs for soup, you will need to cook them for 30-35 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and the meat is tender.
22. How long to boil chicken thighs before grilling?
If you are boiling chicken thighs before grilling, you will need to cook them for 15-20 minutes. This will help to tenderize the meat and make it easier to grill.
23. Can I boil chicken thighs in advance?
Yes, you can boil chicken thighs in advance. Just be sure to store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. The cooked chicken will keep fresh for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
Now that you know how long to boil chicken thighs, try this cooking method the next time you’re looking for an easy and healthy meal option. Don’t forget to experiment with different methods and timings until you find what works best for you.
This cooking method is simple and straightforward, and it produces delicious results. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a large group, boiling chicken is an easy and foolproof way to get perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Remember to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked before serving. And be sure to experiment with different herbs and spices to flavor your chicken according to your preferences.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to cook chicken thighs perfectly every time. So go ahead and give it a try! We promise you won’t be disappointed.
Happy cooking!