Learn how long to boil chicken so that it is always juicy and tender! I’m an expert in food science, and these are the exact times I use to boil chicken every time so that it is always juicy and tender!
If you cook chicken on the bone, the meat may be more flavorful and juicy, but it takes longer to cook. The total cooking time depends on how thick the bone is and how much meat there is. To keep chicken on the bone from being undercooked or dry from being overcooked, it’s important to know how long it needs to cook.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down estimating cooking times for various bone-in chicken cuts and techniques to ensure it turns out moist and delicious every time
Overview of Cooking Times for Chicken on the Bone
Whole chickens and parts of chicken with bones like wings, thighs, and drumsticks usually take longer to cook than boneless cuts. Here is a quick list of common bone-in chicken recipes and how long they take to cook.
- Chicken wings or drumettes – 20-30 minutes
- Chicken thighs or drumsticks – 30-40 minutes
- Chicken breasts – 30-40 minutes
- Whole chicken – 45-60 minutes
However, cooking time can vary based on the size of the chicken, thickness of the meat, cooking method, and oven temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness instead of relying solely on timing.
Factors That Impact Cooking Time
Several factors impact how long it takes to cook chicken on the bone properly:
Size and Thickness
Larger, thicker cuts of chicken cook more slowly. It takes longer to roast a whole chicken than wings or small drumsticks.
Cooking Method
The technique you use affects time. Grilling cooks faster than baking. Pressure cooking is fastest.
Oven Temperature
Higher oven temps shorten cooking time. Chicken baked at 400°F cooks quicker than at 350°F.
Frozen vs. Thawed
Frozen chicken requires more time to cook through than thawed. Defrost first for shorter cooking.
Bone Density
Thicker, denser leg bones slow cooking compared to softer breastbones.
Tips for Cooking Moist, Flavorful Chicken on the Bone
Follow these tips for the best results when cooking chicken on the bone:
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Defrost properly – Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
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Use a meat thermometer – Check temperature to prevent under or overcooking.
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Watch carefully – Bone-in chicken can go from perfect to dry quickly at the end.
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Baste occasionally – Spoon pan juices over chicken to add moisture and flavor.
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Let rest before serving – Allowing it to rest 5-10 minutes after cooking helps lock in juices.
Cooking Time Guidelines for Common Bone-In Chicken Recipes
Here are more specific time ranges for various bone-in chicken dishes:
Whole Roast Chicken
- 3-4 pounds – Bake at 350°F for 60-75 minutes
Chicken Breasts
- Bone-in, skin-on – Bake at 375°F for 35-45 minutes
- Stuffed bone-in – Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes
Chicken Thighs
- Bone-in – Bake at 400°F for 30-40 minutes
- Boneless – Grill for 10-15 minutes
Chicken Legs
- Drumsticks – Bake at 375°F for 40-50 minutes
- Whole legs – Grill for 25-30 minutes
Chicken Wings
- Flats or drumettes – Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes
- Whole wings – Air fry at 390°F for 18-22 minutes
Testing Doneness of Bone-In Chicken
The most accurate way to check if bone-in chicken is done is with an instant-read thermometer. Put it in the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch the bone. Use the chart below to find out what temperature your chicken should be at inside:
| Chicken Dish | Minimum Internal Temp |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken | 165°F |
| Chicken breasts | 165°F |
| Chicken thighs | 175°F |
| Chicken legs | 165°F |
| Chicken wings | 165°F |
The chicken is safe to eat once it reaches the target temperature. If undercooked, return to oven for 5-10 more minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Succulent Chicken on the Bone
Bone-in chicken offers incredible flavor and texture perfect for all kinds of meals:
- Toss wings or drumettes in your favorite sauce or dry rub
- Pair chicken thighs with roasted veggies and rice
- Make chicken noodle soup with bone-in breast meat
- Use leg quarters for hearty stews or casseroles
- Create a whole meal with a roasted chicken, sides, and pan gravy
With the proper cooking time and temperature, you can enjoy incredibly juicy, tender chicken on the bone full of savory flavor. Use this guide to achieve perfection every time you cook chicken with the bone in.
Chicken Boiling Time Chart
| Chicken Cut | Approximate Boiling Time |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Breasts | 12-15 minutes |
| Bone-In Breasts | 25-30 minutes |
| Boneless Thighs | 10-15 minutes |
| Bone-In Thighs (just done, still firm) | 20-25 minutes |
| Bone-In Thighs (fall-apart tender; best for shredding) | 40-60 minutes |
| Drumsticks | 35-45 minutes |
| Wings | 20-30 minutes |
| Leg Quarters | 40-50 minutes |
| Whole Chicken | 60-90 minutes |
Key Considerations:
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), no matter how long it boils for.
- Simmering vs. Rolling Boil: Once the water starts to boil, turn down the heat to keep it at a gentle simmer. A rolling boil can toughen the meat.
Frozen Chicken Boiling Time Chart
| Chicken Cut Cooking from Frozen | Approximate Boiling Time |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Breasts | 20-30 minutes |
| Bone-In Breasts | 45-60 minutes |
| Boneless Thighs | 30-35 minutes |
| Bone-In Thighs | 45-50 minutes |
Key Considerations:
- Internal Temperature: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating it, no matter how long it boils for.
- Size and Thickness: Pieces that are bigger or thicker may take longer to make. To make sure the meat is done, it’s best to use a meat thermometer.
Baked Bone-in Chicken Thighs
FAQ
How long does chicken on the bone cook?
Bake chicken uncovered in the preheated oven until no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone, should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Nov 15, 2024.
Is it better to bake chicken at 350 or 400?
How long do chicken bones take to cook?
Bring to a boil on high heat and reduce to a low simmer. It’s normal for scum to rise to the top of the pot during the first half hour of cooking. Use a big metal spoon to skim it off. Let simmer uncovered at a low simmer for 4 to 6 hours. Check every hour or so to be sure there is still enough water in the pot.
How long does it take to cook bone in chicken breast?
Using this temperature guideline will result in a perfectly cooked meal that is both flavorful and moist. How long does it take to cook bone-in chicken breast in the oven? Cooking time for bone-in chicken breast generally ranges from 35 to 50 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts and the oven temperature.
How long does it take to cook bone-in chicken?
Bone-in chicken breasts that weigh about 6 to 8 ounces (17 to 230 grams) usually take 25 to 30 minutes to cook at 425°F (220°C). Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and it is crucial to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the recommended safe level.
Can you cook bone-in chicken breast in the oven?
Cooking chicken breast in the oven can be a delightful way to achieve a juicy, flavorful meal, particularly when using bone-in cuts. Chicken breasts with the bones in are very flavorful and add a lot of depth to your dishes. They are also easier to cook, which can add more flavor.
How long does it take to cook a chicken breast?
However, you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breast. On average, bone-in chicken breasts weighing around 6-8 ounces (170-230 grams) take approximately 25-30 minutes to cook at 425°F (220°C).
How do you know if bone-in chicken is done cooking?
The most reliable way to determine if bone-in chicken breast is done cooking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast without touching the bone, and look for a reading of 165°F (75°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken is safe to eat while remaining succulent and tender.
What temperature should a bone-in chicken breast be cooked to?
Oven temperature plays a critical role in ensuring that bone-in chicken breasts are cooked to perfection. A preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) is generally ideal for cooking bone-in chicken breasts. This temperature allows for thorough cooking while retaining the moisture and tenderness of the meat.