Research comparing chicken cuts shows that thigh meat can provide more iron and zinc than breast meat. Dark meat generally contains higher concentrations of these minerals, partly because it contains more myoglobin. Studies comparing chicken breast and thigh have consistently found differences in their mineral profiles, with thigh meat generally richer in iron and zinc.
Chicken and other meats are also important dietary sources of coenzyme Q10, which plays a role in cellular energy production. However, research has not established that chicken thighs consistently contain more CoQ10 than breast meat.
So chicken thighs can offer more iron and zinc, while also being an affordable alternative to breast meat depending on local prices. The exact CoQ10 and price difference varies by cut, brand, and market.