Crispy Cast Iron Chicken Thighs Recipe

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs in skillet with crispy crust and juices.

5 from 1 vote

Crispy Cast Iron Chicken Thighs Recipe

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs are a crispy skillet chicken recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering crispy skin, bold Chipotle seasoning, and minimal prep. Bone-in chicken thighs are seared in a cast-iron skillet and finished in the oven until juicy and golden brown.

Prep Time10

Cook Time35

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 564kcal

Author: Jami Powell

Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Oven mitts

Ingredients

8 chicken thighs bone-in skin-on
2 tablespoons chipotle seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub the chipotle seasoning, salt, and black pepper all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Flip the chicken thighs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Cooking Notes

Starting the chicken in a hot skillet helps render excess fat from the skin while building better texture. Finishing the thighs in the oven allows the meat to cook through without burning the exterior.

Tips for Best Results:

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
Avoid moving the chicken while the skin sears.
Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Know It’s Ready:

The skin should look deeply golden and crisp while the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Nutrition