Sous Vide Chicken Thighs: Perfectly Tender Every Time

Updated on: August 27, 2025

Tender sous vide chicken thighs on a plate with herbs and seasoning

If you’re looking for a way to make chicken thighs that are juicy and flavorful, you’re in the right place. Sous Vide Chicken Thighs: Perfectly Tender Every Time are a game changer for any home cook. This method locks in moisture and ensures your chicken turns out perfectly every time. Let’s explore why you should try this recipe and how to make it!

Why Make This Recipe

Sous vide cooking is a simple and effective technique. It allows for precise temperature control, ensuring you never overcook your chicken. Here are a few reasons to make sous vide chicken thighs:

Consistency: Enjoy evenly cooked chicken every time.
Flavor: Infuse your chicken with herbs and garlic for amazing taste.
No Fuss: Set it and forget it until it’s time to sear.

How to Make Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
2 garlic cloves, smashed
1 sprig rosemary or thyme

Directions:

Season the Chicken Thighs: Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in a vacuum-seal bag along with olive oil (or butter), smashed garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Seal the Bag: Use a vacuum sealer to seal the bag tightly. If you don’t have one, use the water displacement method. Place the chicken in a ziplock bag and remove the air by slowly submerging the bag into water.
Cook Sous Vide: Preheat your sous vide machine to 165°F (74°C). Submerge the sealed bag in the water bath and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Sear the Chicken: After cooking, take the chicken out of the bag and pat it dry with paper towels. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

Sous vide chicken thighs are versatile. You can serve them sliced over a salad, alongside mashed potatoes, or in a warm wrap. Pair them with your favorite sauces or marinades to enhance the flavors.

How to Store Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.

Tips to Make Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing adds a delightful crispy crust to your chicken.
Marinate: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs before sealing.
Check the Temperature: Using a food thermometer can ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding lemon slices or using soy sauce and ginger for an Asian twist. The beauty of sous vide cooking is its flexibility!

FAQs

1. Can I cook chicken thighs longer than 2 hours in sous vide?
Yes, you can. However, cooking longer than 4 hours might lead to a change in texture.

2. Is sous vide cooking safe?
Yes! Cooking at controlled temperatures eliminates harmful bacteria. Always follow safe cooking practices.

3. Can I sous vide frozen chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time for best results.

Now get ready to enjoy the best chicken thighs you’ve ever made! Happy cooking!