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Honey garlic chicken thighs plated with rice and vegetables.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Recipe

These juicy and flavorful boneless, skinless chicken thighs are easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Cooked to perfection in a skillet, oven, or air fryer, they are seasoned with a simple blend of spices for maximum taste. Pair them with your favorite side dishes for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large skillet (if pan-frying)
  • Baking sheet with rack (if baking)
  • Air fryer (if air frying)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
  • ½ tsp chili powder optional, for a bit of spice
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice for marinating, optional

Instructions
 

  • Pan-Fry Method:
  • Marinate (Optional): In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken thighs with olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. Let them marinate for 15–30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
  • Heat Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
  • Cook the Chicken: Place the thighs in the pan, smooth side down. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another 5–6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest & Serve: Remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Oven-Baked Method:
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a wire rack.
  • Toss chicken thighs with oil and seasonings.
  • Arrange thighs in a single layer and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F or 74°C).
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Air Fryer Method:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  • Coat the chicken with oil and seasoning, then arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
Use bone-in thighs if you prefer more juiciness, but adjust the cooking time.
Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keyword Boneless skinless chicken thighs, easy chicken thighs recipe, skillet chicken, oven-baked chicken thighs, air fryer chicken, healthy chicken recipe, juicy chicken thighs