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What Are Boneless Chicken Thighs?

Erik J.J. Goserud
Erik J.J. Goserud

Boneless chicken thighs are a very popular dish that people can enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or even full-out meal. As their name suggests, these delectable creations utilize the thigh of a chicken but are modified in one important way; they have no bone. The boneless chicken thigh may then be left as is, or the meat may be broken down and cooks can alter it further into another type of dish.

Boneless chicken thighs, of course, come from the thigh of the chicken. The chicken, like other animals, has many areas that can be used for culinary purposes. Many people prefer that the bone remain in each cut of meat as this is a more authentic feel. Others prefer the bone because it allows for a more casual dining occasion as people generally use their hands. There are also distinct advantages to boneless chicken thighs — not all people are bone fans.

Chef
Chef

There are numerous advantages to boneless chicken thighs. First of all, they are much safer to eat. This is not to say that no one has ever been lost to the boneless variety of chicken, but there is certainly a much greater potential for choking if a bone resides within.

Another advantage is the versatility posed by boneless chicken thighs. When chicken is stuck to a bone, it's difficult to mix it in with other concoctions. When cooks pull the tender meat from its adjoining bone, they can use it for anything — they can season and flavor it or cut it into little pieces. Chicken casserole, chicken stew, buffalo chicken dip, and other dishes feature boneless chicken. Throwing chicken thighs with the bone into chicken stew is probably not a great idea though, which is why, thankfully, someone had the sense to come up with a boneless variety.

Like many facets of the culinary world, boneless chicken thighs are always subject to innovation. One great thing about food is that there is no right or wrong, only preference. Creative minds have been using food as their canvas for centuries, and boneless chicken thighs can certainly act as one too.

A person who enjoys chicken or just food in general would be wise to familiarize themselves with this dish. Following recipes and taking into account personal preferences can inspire amateurs and professional chefs alike to further advance the varieties of chicken thighs available today. While bones are great in some circumstances, there are times to be thankful for boneless chicken thighs.

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