Golden, crispy, and loaded with rich flavor, these bone-in chicken thighs are a carnivore-friendly delight. Perfectly seared and oven-roasted, they deliver juicy meat with a satisfying crunch.
This versatile recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests. Pair it with a creamy sauce or serve it as is for a meal that’s as delicious as it is easy.
Juicy & Crispy Carnivore Chicken Thighs
- Yield: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon bacon grease or another heat-tolerant fat, for the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or another oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until it just starts to smoke, about 5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with kosher salt.
- Add the bacon grease to the hot pan, swirling to coat the surface, and place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan.
- Cook the thighs undisturbed for about 8 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. The meat should no longer be pink at the center. Serve immediately.
Notes & Cooking Tips
- Air Fryer Option: For air frying, preheat to 400°F and season thighs with melted bacon grease and salt. Cook skin-side up for 20 to 25 minutes until fully cooked and crispy.
- Crisp Perfection: Patting the chicken dry ensures maximum crispiness during cooking.
- Meal Prep: Double the recipe using two skillets to avoid overcrowding. Rotate pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
Why Crispy Chicken Thighs Are Perfect for the Carnivore Diet
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and fat, making them a staple for those following the carnivore diet. The crispy skin adds texture and flavor, while the juicy meat provides satisfying nutrition. Whether paired with a rich butter sauce or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a perfect way to elevate a simple ingredient into a show-stopping meal.
Serve alongside bone broth, or top with Blue Cheese Cream Sauce for added indulgence. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your carnivore recipe rotation!
Crispy Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- Kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon bacon grease or another heat-tolerant fat for the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or another oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until it just starts to smoke, about 5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with kosher salt.
- Add the bacon grease to the hot pan, swirling to coat the surface, and place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan.
- Cook the thighs undisturbed for about 8 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. The meat should no longer be pink at the center. Serve immediately.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.