To boil chicken thighs, the cooking time depends on whether they are bone-in or boneless, fresh or frozen:
- For fresh boneless chicken thighs , boil for about 10 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For fresh bone-in chicken thighs , boil for about 20 to 30 minutes , aiming for an internal temperature of 175°F near the bone to ensure thorough cooking.
- For frozen boneless thighs , boil for about 30 to 35 minutes.
- For frozen bone-in thighs , boil for about 45 to 50 minutes.
Bring the water to a boil with the chicken submerged by 2-3 inches, then reduce to a simmer and cook for the times above. Skim off any foam that forms on top during boiling. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, or cut into the thickest part to ensure there is no pink and juices run clear
. After boiling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving or shredding. Optionally, broil or sear the boiled thighs to crisp the skin
. In summary:
Chicken Type| Boiling Time| Target Internal Temp
---|---|---
Boneless fresh| 10–15 minutes| 165°F (74°C)
Bone-in fresh| 20–30 minutes| 175°F (79°C)
Boneless frozen| 30–35 minutes| 165°F (74°C)
Bone-in frozen| 45–50 minutes| 175°F (79°C)
Always ensure the chicken is fully cooked for safety and best texture
