Cooking chicken is a skill that everyone should master, but it can be daunting when you’re just starting out. Knowing the right temperature and how long to cook it can be the difference between a delicious meal and an inedible disaster. In this article, we’re going to tackle the question of how long to cook chicken thighs at 400°F.
Contents
Why is 400°F the Ideal Temperature for Cooking Chicken Thighs?
400°F is the ideal temperature for cooking chicken thighs. At this temperature, the fat in the thighs renders, and the skin is nice and crispy. The high temperature also ensures that the chicken is cooked through and there’s no risk of foodborne illnesses.
If the temperature is too low, the chicken can become dry and rubbery. Too high, and the skin will burn before the chicken is fully cooked. 400°F is the sweet spot, and it’s why most recipes call for ovens to be preheated to this temperature.
How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs at 400°F
The amount of time you need to cook chicken thighs at 400°F depends on the size of the thighs. Generally speaking, it takes about 25 minutes to cook a single chicken thigh. If you’re cooking a large batch of chicken thighs, the time will increase, but you should still be able to cook them in an hour.
It’s important to remember that the cooking time is an estimate. The actual time will depend on the size of the thighs, the thickness of the skin, and the power of your oven. You should always use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is cooked through.
What Temperature Should You Cook Chicken Thighs To?
The internal temperature of the chicken thighs should be at least 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check that the chicken is cooked by cutting into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque and not pink.
It’s important not to overcook the chicken. If the temperature is too high, the chicken can become dry and tough. You want the chicken to be juicy and tender.
What To Serve With Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are a versatile protein that can be served with a variety of sides. Popular sides include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and couscous. You can also serve chicken thighs with a salad or grain bowl.
The Best Way to Cook Chicken Thighs
The best way to cook chicken thighs is to preheat the oven to 400°F and cook the thighs for 25 minutes. You should always use a meat thermometer to make sure that the chicken is cooked through. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the thigh to check that the juices run clear and the meat is opaque.
When the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes to let the juices settle. Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or other sides of your choice.
| Size of thigh | Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Small | 15-20 |
| Medium | 20-25 |
| Large | 25-30 |
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken thighs at 400°F is an easy and fool-proof way to make a delicious meal. The high temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the thighs, so you should always use a thermometer to make sure the chicken is fully cooked.
So don’t worry if you don’t know how long to cook chicken thighs at 400°F. Just preheat your oven, pop in the thighs, and use a thermometer to make sure they’re cooked asininely.
And that’s the way the chicken thighs crumbles!
