how long to boil chicken thighs?

TLDR: Boil fresh boneless chicken thighs for 10-15 minutes and bone-in thighs for 15-20 minutes. For frozen thighs, add 5-10 minutes to these times. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Boiling chicken thighs is a simple yet effective method to achieve tender and juicy meat. For fresh boneless chicken thighs, the boiling time is typically 10 to 15 minutes, while bone-in chicken thighs require about 15 to 20 minutes. If you're using frozen chicken thighs, you should add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the boiling time. For instance, frozen boneless thighs take around 12 to 14 minutes, and frozen bone-in thighs need about 22 to 26 minutes to cook thoroughly.

To ensure safety, always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Factors such as the size and thickness of the thighs, as well as the cooking temperature, can affect boiling times. Additionally, enhancing the boiling water with aromatics like onions and garlic can infuse extra flavor into the chicken. After boiling, you can serve the chicken as is or crisp it up by broiling or searing for added texture.