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Chicken Thighs

Chicken Thighs — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Chicken thighs photo

Listonic Team

September 5, 2024

Chicken thighs are flavorful and tender, making them suitable for a range of cooking methods. Explore the best ways to prepare chicken thighs, their nutritional benefits, and tips for choosing the best cuts at the store.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of chicken thighs, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 209 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs0 g-
Fiber0 g-
Sugars0 g-
Glycemic Index0 -
Protein18 g36%
Sodium82 mg3.57%
Total Fat16 20.51%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes chicken thighs stand out:

18 g

🧀 Good Protein Content

Key takeaways

😋
Chicken thighs are often more flavorful and moist than chicken breasts due to their higher fat content.
📦
Store fresh chicken thighs in the refrigerator and use within one to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to nine months. Cooked chicken thighs can be refrigerated for up to four days.

Health benefits

Explore how chicken thighs can offer a flavorful and nutritious protein source, contributing to your diet and vitality.
  • High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
  • Rich in flavor due to higher fat content, making them more succulent and satisfying.
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
  • Supports bone health if consumed with the bone, providing additional nutrients from bone marrow.

Health risks

Explore the health risks and possible concerns associated with chicken thighs.
  • High fat content particularly with the skin, which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels and heart disease if consumed frequently.
  • Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, especially if the chicken is not properly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
  • Potential for antibiotic resistance due to the use of antibiotics in poultry farming, which can affect the effectiveness of antibiotics in humans.
  • Risk of foodborne illness if chicken thighs are not properly stored, handled, or cooked, leading to potential food poisoning.
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How to choose chicken thighs

When choosing chicken thighs, look for skin that is smooth and unblemished, with meat that feels firm to the touch. The color should be a consistent pinkish hue without any gray spots.

Avoid chicken thighs with a slimy texture or those that have a sour smell, as these are signs the chicken may not be fresh. Good chicken thighs will smell neutral and have a clean, not sticky, surface.

How to choose chicken thighs

How to store chicken thighs

Chicken thighs should be refrigerated and used within a few days. Store them in their original packaging or transfer to an airtight container. Freezing is ideal for longer storage, up to six months.

Air exposure can lead to spoilage, so keeping thighs in a sealed container is crucial. It’s important to avoid frequent thawing and refreezing, which can degrade texture and taste. Clean utensils and surfaces are essential to prevent contamination.

✅ Extra Tip

For better organization and to avoid thawing more than needed, consider portioning chicken thighs into smaller, freezer-safe bags before freezing.

How long do they last?

Chicken thighs can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, chicken thighs can be frozen for up to 9 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain their quality over longer storage periods.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover chicken thighs can be used in a variety of hearty dishes. Shred the meat and add it to salads, wraps, or sandwiches, or mix it into a pasta dish with a creamy sauce. Chicken thighs are also great in soups, stews, or casseroles, where their tender meat adds flavor and richness.

Use chicken thighs in a stir-fry with vegetables and rice, or toss them with barbecue sauce for a pulled chicken sandwich. If you have a lot of chicken thighs, consider making a batch of chicken enchiladas or using the meat in a chicken and rice bake. The thigh meat can also be added to a quiche or frittata for a savory breakfast or brunch. For a quick meal, reheat the thighs and serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or vegetables.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

How chicken thighs support specific health conditions

Chicken thighs are a flavorful source of protein, supporting muscle health and tissue repair. They also provide B vitamins and minerals like phosphorus, promoting brain function and bone health. While higher in fat than chicken breast, chicken thighs can still support heart health when cooked without the skin and paired with a balanced diet rich in vegetables and whole grains. Their nutrient-dense profile makes them a satisfying and nutritious option when consumed in moderation.

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