Yes, you absolutely can get boneless chicken thighs.
Boneless chicken thighs are a readily available cut of poultry, widely popular due to their rich flavor and versatility in cooking. As highlighted in the reference, "Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great in stews and soups and in casseroles and braises."
What Are Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are part of the chicken's leg, specifically the upper portion. Unlike the drumstick (the lower part of the leg), the thigh contains a bone which is typically removed to create a "boneless" cut. They are dark meat, known for having more fat and moisture compared to chicken breast, resulting in a richer, meatier flavor.
Why Choose Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Selecting boneless chicken thighs offers several advantages:
- Ease of Preparation: Without the bone, they cook more evenly and are easier to cut and eat.
- Versatility: Their robust flavor holds up well in various cooking methods.
- Moisture: The higher fat content keeps the meat moist and tender, even if slightly overcooked, making them forgiving for novice cooks.
Common Uses for Boneless Chicken Thighs
Boneless chicken thighs are suitable for numerous dishes. Based on the reference and common culinary practices, they shine in:
- Stews and Soups: Their flavor deepens during slow cooking, and the boneless nature makes them easy to incorporate and serve.
- Casseroles: They remain tender and flavorful when baked alongside other ingredients.
- Braises: Slow cooking in liquid breaks down connective tissues, resulting in exceptionally tender meat.
- Grilling or Pan-Searing (especially if skinless)
- Curries
- Stir-fries
Boneless vs. Bone-In
While both boneless and bone-in chicken thighs are available, the boneless version is often preferred for speed and convenience in recipes where removing the bone afterwards would be cumbersome. The bone can add flavor during cooking, but the difference is often minimal, especially in complex dishes.
Finding boneless chicken thighs is easy; they are a standard item in most grocery stores and butcher shops, typically sold fresh or frozen.
