Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs: A Simple, Flavor-Packed Protein for Any Meal 

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. That’s certainly the case with Healthier 901’s Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs—a go-to protein that’s juicy, flavorful and incredibly versatile. Whether served alongside roasted vegetables, over a crisp salad or paired with nutrient-rich whole grains, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. 

For many, chicken thighs have long been overlooked in favor of chicken breasts, despite the fact that this lesser-picked poultry cut is actually an excellent choice for both nutrition and flavor. 

“Chicken thighs are a fantastic source of lean protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are important for a healthy immune system,” says Leslie Ely, licensed dietician at Methodist Healthcare. “Thighs also contain more healthy fats than chicken breast, which helps keep you fuller for longer and enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.” 

As part of our “Every Bite, A Step Forward” initiative, Healthier 901 encourages small, sustainable changes that help you feel and function at your best. Cooking at home with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients—like these protein-packed chicken thighs—is a great way to build healthy habits that last. As an added bonus, this flavorful dish is a proven favorite for even the most picky eaters, making this recipe an awesome addition to any home chef’s cookbook. 

Ready to give them a try? Here’s how to make perfectly seared chicken thighs with a golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. 

Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2/3 cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp, flavorful finish. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, onion powder and dried oregano.
2. Heat the pan. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sear the chicken. Place thighs in the hot pan, being sure to give each thigh enough space to flip. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes until the thighs are a deep golden brown.
4. Flip and finish cooking. Turn the chicken over and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Simmer your sauce. Turn heat to medium-low and slowly add in the chicken broth, beginning with ¼ cup. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up chicken bits as the broth deglazes the pan. Allow sauce to thicken until only a thin glaze remains on the bottom of the pan, gently tossing the thighs in the sauce as you go.
6. Rest and serve. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with parsley or other fresh herbs, as desired, and serve with your favorite sides.

Chef Oglesby-Phillips’ Pro Tips:

• Creating a crisp finish: Avoid moving the chicken while it’s cooking on the first side. Letting it sear undisturbed creates that beautiful golden crust.
• Oil type matters: Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil, making it a great option for high-heat cooking.
• Meal prep friendly: Store cooked thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They reheat well in a skillet or oven.
• Perfect pairings: Serve cooked thighs with roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, fresh spring greens or a bright citrus salad for a well-balanced (did we mention crowd-pleasing?) meal.

Delicious, nutritious and easy to prepare, Chef Oglesby-Phillips’ signature Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Try them out and discover how a simple, well-cooked protein can elevate your meals—and if you make any substitutions or try alternate prep methods, be sure to let us know how you make this recipe your own.

Visit www.Healthier901.com or download the free Healthier 901 app for more nutritious recipes, meal prep ideas, on-demand workouts, expert health tips and more.