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protein

Chicken Thigh

Bone-in or boneless — more forgiving than breast

Quick Answer

Chicken Thigh: roast at 400°F for about 38 min. Internal temp: 175°F / 79°C.

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Safe Internal Temp
175°F / 79°C

Cooking Methods

↕ Slide the temperature to see how cook times change

your temp
400°F
cook time
~38min
Low & slow 350°450° Hot & fast
✎ Bone-in, skin-side up for crispy skin.
Food Safety

Chicken thighs are safe at 165°F (USDA), but dark meat tastes better at 175–180°F. Unlike breast meat, thighs have more fat and connective tissue that needs higher temps to render and become tender. At 165°F they're safe but chewy — push to 175°F for the best texture. Almost impossible to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tips for cooking chicken thigh?
Higher fat means more flavor and harder to overcook. Crisp skin-side down first.
What internal temperature should chicken thigh reach?
Chicken thighs are safe at 165°F (USDA), but dark meat tastes better at 175–180°F. Unlike breast meat, thighs have more fat and connective tissue that needs higher temps to render and become tender. At 165°F they're safe but chewy — push to 175°F for the best texture. Almost impossible to overcook.
How do you roast chicken thigh?
Roast at 50–28 min. Bone-in, skin-side up for crispy skin.
How do you air fry chicken thigh?
Air Fry at 24–17 min. Flip halfway through.
How do you grill chicken thigh?
Grill at 7–9 min/side. Indirect heat for bone-in.
How do you braise chicken thigh?
Braise at 70–45 min. Low and slow in liquid. Covered.