How Many Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Are In a Pound? A Detailed Breakdown

Chicken thighs are a versatile and flavorful cut of meat that work great in a variety of dishes. Many recipes call for boneless, skinless chicken thighs by the pound. But how many pieces of chicken will you actually get per pound? The answer depends on a few factors. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how many boneless, skinless chicken thighs to expect per pound and provide tips for shopping and cooking with this tasty ingredient.

Determining Serving Size

When buying packaged chicken thighs, the first thing to look for is the serving size and number of servings listed This will tell you how many ounces each thigh is For example, a typical package might contain four boneless, skinless thighs at about 4 ounces each for a total of 16 ounces (1 pound).

This means you would get approximately 4 thighs per pound. However, there can be some variability

• Smaller thighs may be 3-3.5 ounces each, giving you closer to 5 per pound
• Larger thighs can be 5-6 ounces each, giving you only 3 thighs per pound

The size of chicken thighs can range quite a bit based on the size and breed of the chicken. So the serving sizes listed on the package will give you a more accurate number for that particular package.

Average Weight of Chicken Thighs

While exact counts will vary here are some general guidelines for average boneless skinless chicken thigh sizes

• Small: 3-4 oz
• Medium: 4-5 oz
• Large: 5-6 oz

An average medium thigh will be around 4.5 ounces. If the thighs are roughly equal size, you can expect to yield around 4 thighs per pound.

Some packages may contain a mix of small, medium and large. In this case, estimate that you’ll get 4 to 5 thighs per pound on average.

Factors Affecting Thigh Size

Why so much variation in sizing? Here are some of the factors that affect the weight of chicken thighs:

• Breed of Chicken: Broiler chickens bred for meat tend to have larger thighs than egg-laying breeds. Heritage breed chickens also tend to have smaller thighs.

• Age of Chicken: Younger chickens have smaller thighs that weigh less. Mature chicken thighs are larger.

• Diet: Chickens fed a high quality diet with plenty of room to move around tend to be healthier and have better muscle development.

• Butchering: Precise trimming and removal of all bones and skin makes a difference in the final weight.

• Packaging: Some packing processes can compress or shape the thighs, resulting in weight variations.

Paying attention to labeling, brands, and quality can help you better estimate portion sizes.

Tips for Cooking with Chicken Thighs

Here are some quick tips for working with boneless, skinless chicken thighs in recipes:

• Estimate 4 thighs per pound if boneless and skinless. Adjust amounts as needed if thighs are larger or smaller.

• Allow for some variance. You may get 16-20 oz (4-5 thighs) from a 1 pound package.

• Adjust cook times as needed for larger vs. smaller thighs. Larger pieces may need longer cook times.

• Take weight of one thigh then multiply by number of servings to determine total pounds needed.

• For casseroles or stir fries, uniform sizing isn’t as important. Go with the recommended weight.

• If thighs vary greatly in size, consider cutting into uniform pieces for more even cooking.

• For pan frying or grilling, choose thighs of similar thickness for even cooking.

• Marinate overnight for more tender and juicy results.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure thighs reach 165°F minimum internal temperature.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier meat.

Buying and Storing Chicken Thighs

To ensure you get high quality, consistent sizing, and the right amounts for recipes, follow these tips:

• Check package weight against what the recipe calls for. This will give you the most precision.

• Inspect packaging – thighs should not be torn or leaking and should look fresh.

• Choose thighs of similar size when buying individual pieces.

• Opt for well-known brands that deliver consistent sizing.

• Use thighs within 1-2 days for best flavor and texture.

• Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, tightly wrapped.

• Freeze extras in an airtight freezer bag for up to 9 months.

Sample Recipe with Boneless Thighs

Here is a sample recipe using boneless, skinless chicken thighs so you can see exact measurements:

Baked Chicken Parmesan
Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4 medium thighs)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut chicken thighs into uniform pieces if needed.
3. Combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, Italian seasoning and pepper.
4. Dip chicken in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
5. Arrange chicken in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
7. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

This recipe uses the standard 1 pound (approx. 4 thighs) which will serve 4 people nicely. Adjust amounts as desired based on your final thigh count per pound. Enjoy this classic chicken parm meal!

The Bottom Line

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great staple ingredient for simple dinners, meal prepping, and more. You can expect an average of 4 thighs per pound, but check your package for the specifics. Thigh size can vary based on chicken breed, age, diet and butchering methods. Cook thighs properly using a meat thermometer, allow them to rest, and store them correctly for the best results. With this guide, you’ll know exactly how many thighs you’re getting so meals turn out perfectly.