Chicken is one of the most popular proteins in America, and for good reason. It’s inexpensive, has a mild flavor, and is easy to cook. However, not all chicken parts are created equal.
The difference between chicken thighs and chicken breasts can change how your dish tastes or what you’re able to do with it in the kitchen.
It’s important to understand the difference when grocery shopping or cooking in order to avoid wasting money or time on something that may not be best for you.
Here are some of the pros and cons of each type of chicken so you can decide which will be best for your meal-planning needs.
The Difference Between Chicken Thighs and Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are usually larger and leaner than chicken thighs, but both have their own pros and cons. Chicken thighs have a higher fat content which means they have a more consistent texture throughout the meat.
They’re also best served at a higher temperature, so they’re a good option if you want to pan-fry, roast, or grill your chicken.
On the other hand, chicken breasts have a milder flavor and firmer texture that’s better for dishes that need to be sliced or peeled away from bone, like fried chicken or grilled cheese sandwiches.
Additionally, if you prefer white meat in your meals then chicken breasts may be the ideal option for you.
Their lower fat content makes them more appealing for people who are watching their weight or counting calories. However, their lack of fat can also lead to dryness when cooking with high heat.
Chicken thighs don’t suffer from this problem as much because they contain more fats which act as natural basting agents when cooked with high heat.
Why You Might Choose One Over the Other
Chicken thighs are the darker meat with more fat content. This makes them richer in flavor and juicier when cooked compared to chicken breasts, which are the lighter meat.
If you’re looking for something that has more flavor or has less chance of drying out when cooking, then chicken thighs might be the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for something healthier than chicken thighs might not be the best option. They have twice as much fat as chicken breasts and they can sometimes come off tough during cooking if not cooked properly.
If you prefer a leaner meat or want to keep your calorie intake low, then it’s likely better to stick with chicken breasts–at least on some occasions when you’re trying to watch your weight.
Comparison of the two types
Chicken breasts are a leaner, more expensive cut of meat. They’re often a better choice for someone looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle or follow a vegetarian diet.
The lack of fat in this part of the chicken means it’s low in calories and is the better option for those looking to lose weight.
However, if you prefer something with more flavor, chicken thighs may be the better option as they have more fat and will taste different than chicken breasts as a result.
The reason why chicken breasts are so expensive is because they’re usually sold whole instead of being cut into parts, which means less money is made per pound on purchase.
Chicken thighs also have much smaller yields than chicken breasts do, meaning that you’ll need to buy more pieces in order to get enough meat for your meal plan.
Conclusion
The debate of thighs vs. breasts is a contentious one. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
But, if you are leaning towards thighs or breasts, be sure to read this guide to find the pros and cons of each so you can make the best decision for your family.