Method
The cold-pan start is the key to crisp skin.
- Debone the chicken thighs, keeping the skin on.
- Start the thighs skin-side down in a cold pan and leave them undisturbed until the skin crisps and lifts away from the pan.
- Toss cucumber, red onion, and chili with vinegar and sugar for a quick pickled salad.
- Cook onion in the rendered chicken fat, then stir it into herby rice.
- Plate the chicken over the rice with the pickled salad alongside.