1 Unit (yield From 1 Lb Ready-to-cook Chicken) Chicken Thigh Meat (Broilers or Fryers, Flour, Fried, Cooked) contains 68 calories. Chicken thigh meat is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, cooking method, serving size, health benefits, meal ideas, storage tips, preparation tips, buying tips, culinary uses, and alternative cuts of chicken thigh meat.

Chicken thigh meat is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. It is also relatively high in fat and calories compared to other cuts of chicken, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, there are many ways to prepare chicken thigh meat. It can be fried, baked, grilled, roasted, or stewed, and can be seasoned with a wide variety of herbs, spices, and sauces. Let's take a closer look at how to cook and enjoy chicken thigh meat.

Nutritional Information

Chicken thigh meat is a good source of protein and essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. A 3-ounce serving of chicken thigh meat (with skin) contains approximately:

• 186 calories
• 22 grams of protein
• 11 grams of fat
• 108 milligrams of cholesterol
• 0 grams of carbohydrates
• 0 grams of fiber
• 0 grams of sugar

Cooking Method

Chicken thigh meat can be cooked in many different ways, depending on your preference and the recipe you are following. Here are some popular cooking methods for chicken thigh meat:

• Frying: Coat the chicken thigh meat in flour or breadcrumbs and fry in a pan until golden brown.
• Baking: Place the chicken thigh meat in a baking dish and bake in the oven until cooked through.
• Grilling: Season the chicken thigh meat with your favorite spices and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through.
• Roasting: Place the chicken thigh meat in a roasting pan and roast in the oven until cooked through.
• Stewing: Cut the chicken thigh meat into bite-sized pieces and cook in a saucepan with vegetables and broth until tender.

Serving Size

The recommended serving size for chicken thigh meat is 3 ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards. Depending on how it is prepared, this serving size may contain different amounts of calories, fat, and protein.

Health Benefits

Chicken thigh meat has many health benefits, including:

• Good source of protein
• Good source of essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12
• May boost metabolism and promote weight loss
• May improve bone health
• May lower blood pressure and reduce risk of heart disease

Meal Ideas

Chicken thigh meat can be used in many different dishes, such as:

• Fried chicken
• Chicken parmesan
• Barbecue chicken
• Chicken curry
• Chicken and dumplings
• Chicken tacos
• Chicken stir-fry

Storage Tips

Raw chicken thigh meat can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days or in the freezer for up to 6 months. Cooked chicken thigh meat can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To prevent foodborne illness, always cook chicken thigh meat to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Preparation Tips

Here are some tips to help you prepare chicken thigh meat:

• Remove the skin to reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Cut the chicken thigh meat into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Marinate the chicken thigh meat for extra flavor and tenderness.
• Season the chicken thigh meat generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Buying Tips

When buying chicken thigh meat, look for fresh, plump, and moist cuts. Avoid cuts that are discolored, slimy, or have a foul odor. If possible, buy organic or free-range chicken to ensure the highest quality and animal welfare standards.

Culinary Uses

Chicken thigh meat can be used in many different culinary applications, such as:

• Soup and stew recipes
• Pie and quiche recipes
• Pasta and rice dishes
• Sandwiches and wraps
• Pizza and flatbread recipes

Alternative Cuts

If you're looking for alternative cuts of chicken, try these options:

• Chicken breast: A lean and versatile cut that is great for grilling and baking.
• Chicken drumsticks: A flavorful and juicy cut that is perfect for frying and roasting.
• Chicken wings: A popular appetizer that can be fried or baked with a variety of sauces.
• Chicken tenders: A tender and tasty cut that is perfect for dipping and snacking.