35 Easy Stove Top Chicken Thigh Recipes

If you're looking for the perfect chicken dinner, then you've come to the right place!  I've curated the 35 best stove top chicken thigh recipes that are not only easy to make but are also packed with delicious flavor.  Plus, I'll share some essential cooking tips and tricks to elevate your chicken game to the next level.

 

When it comes to quick and delicious dinners, chicken thighs are a go-to for busy weeknights. They cook up in a flash, are incredibly versatile, and are loved by the whole family. 

Each of these stovetop chicken thigh recipes can help make dinnertime a breeze on even the busiest of evenings. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to whip up delicious meals without the hassle.

Whether you're in the mood for crispy skin, a savory pan sauce, a hearty stew, or comforting one-pot chicken and rice, there's a chicken thigh recipe here that's sure to become your new go-to dinner.

All of these delicious chicken recipes can be made on the stove so there's no need to turn on the oven.  So, grab your skillet and let's get cooking!

Chicken Thighs vs Chicken Breasts

When it comes to chicken, the age-old debate between chicken thighs and chicken breasts is never-ending. Each cut has its own unique qualities. 

Chicken breasts are known for their lean protein content. They're naturally lower in fat and calories than chicken thighs.  Because they are low in fat, they can dry out easily during cooking. 

Chicken thighs bring a different dimension to the table. They are inherently juicier and more flavorful due to their slightly higher fat content. This extra fat not only adds richness but also helps prevent overcooking, keeping them tender and moist. 

How To Cook Chicken Thighs on the Stove

Stovetop cooking offers endless possibilities, allowing you to create everything from crispy and flavorful skin-on chicken thighs to tender and juicy boneless options, all with your choice of seasonings and sauces. 

To cook chicken thighs on the stove, start by heating a frying pan or skillet like a cast-iron skillet over medium high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil like olive oil or avocado oil to prevent sticking. 

Season your chicken thighs with your favorite herbs and spices like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Let them sear until they develop a golden brown crust, usually around 4-5 minutes per side for bone-in chicken thighs.

If you're using boneless chicken thighs, the cook time may be a bit shorter, typically 3-4 minutes per side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they're fully cooked. 

If you're making a pan sauce, remove the chicken thighs.  Add the sauce ingredients to the pan (like wine, chicken broth, etc) and scape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.  This will add more flavor and make a delicious pan sauce.  

Let the sauce simmer until it reduces.  Then add the chicken back to the pan and let it finish cooking in the sauce.  

Food Safety

Ensuring food safety is paramount when working with chicken, and it begins with proper cooking and storage practices.

When cooking chicken thighs on the stove or any other method, it's crucial to make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees F (74°C). This temperature ensures that any harmful bacteria are eliminated, leaving you with safe-to-eat, perfectly cooked chicken.  

The best way to check this is with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken .  

To store chicken thighs properly, keep them in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Use them within a couple of days to maintain freshness. If you plan to store them longer, consider freezing. Seal them tightly in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and label with the date.

When defrosting frozen chicken, do so in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth. Practicing good food safety habits not only safeguards your health. It also guarantees that your stovetop chicken thigh recipes are as safe as they are delicious.

Have you ever wondered how long chicken can sit out before you need to toss it? Read my post all about how to properly handle and store chicken to help ensure that it's always safe to eat!

35 Easy Stove Top Chicken Thigh Recipes

Here's my collection of the best easy chicken thigh recipes that can be made on the stovetop.  As you'll see, there's a wide variety of recipes in here. Whether you're looking for perfectly seasoned crispy chicken thighs or chicken thighs cooked in a delicious pan sauce made with ingredients like garlic, herbs, white wine, and even champagne, I've got you covered!

These stove top chicken thigh recipes also include hearty braised stews, Asian curries, and stir-fried noodle dishes studded with juicy pieces of chicken.  I've also included some soups, pasta dishes and chicken and rice dishes, which are the ultimate comforting one-pot meals.  

Chicken thighs marry well with many flavors and there are a lot of international recipes in this collection.  I've got everything from Mediterranean chicken dishes, to Asian curries and noodles, to vibrant Peruvian chicken served with the most delicious green sauce.

So, whether you're a fan of rich and hearty stews or crave the zesty flair of stir-fry, there's a stovetop chicken thigh recipe here that's sure to satisfy your cravings.  Let's dive in and discover your next culinary masterpiece!

Whole Chicken Thighs

Stir Fry and Curries

Soup

Chicken and Rice

Miscellaneous

I hope this roundup has inspired you to explore the versatility of chicken thighs and embark on your own culinary journey. So, fire up your stovetop, grab your favorite skillet, and let your kitchen be the stage for countless delicious dishes!

Side Dishes To Make With Chicken Thighs