How to Cut Chicken Thighs for Stir Fry: A Step-by-Step Guide

Stir frying is a quick and easy cooking method that’s perfect for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. With a sharp knife a cutting board and a few simple techniques, you can cut chicken thighs into perfect bite-sized pieces for stir fries in minutes.

Why Choose Chicken Thighs for Stir Fry?

Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. They hold up well to high-heat stir frying, retaining moisture without drying out. Chicken thighs are usually less expensive than breasts too. With the right prep chicken thighs make excellent stir fry protein.

Prepping Chicken Thighs for Stir Frying

Before cutting up chicken thighs, it helps to prep them first:

• Trim excess fat and skin: Use a sharp knife to remove any large pieces of fat or skin. A little fat left on is ok and adds flavor.

• Pat dry: Gently pat the thighs with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry chicken will brown better in the wok.

• Chill slightly For 10-15 minutes in the fridge or freezer, Partially frozen chicken is easier to cut cleanly

How to Cut Chicken Thighs into Bite-Sized Pieces

With prepped chicken thighs, you’re ready to cut them up. Follow these simple steps:

1. Cut Thighs in Half Lengthwise

• Place chicken thigh smooth side down on cutting board.
• Hold thigh steady with fingers curled under.
• Slice down middle lengthwise.

This halves the thigh into thinner pieces that are easier to cut up.

2. Cut Thigh Halves into 1-Inch Pieces

• Working with one thigh half at a time, begin slicing crosswise into 1-inch strips.
• Cut strips into approximately 1-inch cubes.

Aim for bite-sized pieces about 1 inch or slightly smaller. Keep pieces uniform in size for even cooking.

3. Cut Any Large Pieces Down

• If some pieces are larger than 1-inch, slice them in half for evenly sized chicken.

Uniformly sized chicken ensures everything cooks at the same rate during stir frying.

Alternative Cuts for Stir Fry

While 1-inch cubes are typical for stir fries, you can also cut chicken thighs into:

• Thin strips: Cut halves lengthwise into 1⁄4-inch strips. Good for velveting.

• Smaller dice: 3⁄4-inch cubes cook quickly for fast weeknight meals.

• Larger chunks: Use 1 1⁄2-inch pieces for more hearty stews and curries.

Knife Skills and Technique Tips

Follow these techniques for safe, easy chicken thigh cutting:

• Use a sharp chef’s knife: A sharp knife cuts cleanly and is safer than a dull blade.

• Cut perpendicular to the grain: For tender, bite-sized pieces.

• Keep knife tip on board: Don’t cut through empty air.

• Work from one thigh half at a time: It’s more stable than cutting two together.

• Curl finger tips under: To protect hands when cutting.

• Take your time: Focus on precision over speed.

Properly prepped and cut, chicken thighs are ready to toss into a hot wok or pan for quick, flavorful stir fries. The uniform 1-inch cubes ensure the chicken cooks fast and evenly. Keep a batch of cut-up thighs in the fridge for easy meals all week.

Chicken Thigh Stir Fry Inspiration

Once your chicken thighs are prepped for stir frying, the possibilities are endless! Here are just a few delicious recipe ideas:

• Sweet and Sour Chicken: A takeout classic made easy at home.

• Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy, nutty, with snap peas and peppers.

• Orange Chicken: Crispy fried chicken glazed in a tangy orange sauce.

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry: Savory-sweet with pineapple and bell peppers.

• Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry: A quick and healthy dinner staple.

• Cashew Chicken: Tender chicken in a rich cashew stir fry sauce.

• Mongolian Chicken: Savory sauce with scallions and garlic.

Chicken thigh stir fries are fast, fresh, and packed with flavor. Prepping the chicken properly ensures delicious results. Follow this simple guide for how to cut chicken thighs into perfect stir fry pieces. Then fire up the wok and whip up your favorite saucy stir fry tonight!

To make chicken thighs more tender, they should be cut against the grain.