If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make air fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, look no further! Air fryer chicken thighs are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re searching for air fry recipes, air fryer chicken thighs recipes, or air fryer oven recipes, this simple and tasty dish will become a family favorite in no time. With just a few ingredients, you can make crispy and juicy air fryer chicken thighs that are tender and full of flavor.
These chicken thigh recipes air fryer are not only delicious but also easy to make, offering a healthier alternative to frying. From quick air fryer chicken thighs to air fryer chicken dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. So, let’s dive into how to make the best air fryer chicken thighs juicy and ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes!
Why I Love Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are the best because they’re juicy and flavorful. Unlike chicken breasts, they don’t dry out easily. And when you pop them in the air fryer, that crispy skin is just next-level. Plus, it’s pretty much a one-pan meal—no need to worry about making a mess. You’ll love how quickly this comes together, and it’s way tastier than takeout!
What You Need
This recipe is super simple. Here’s what you’ll need to make the best chicken thighs ever:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika makes it extra yummy!)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
- 1/2 tsp salt (you can add more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Get Your Chicken Ready
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get really crispy in the air fryer. Then, drizzle the olive oil over the thighs. Rub it in really well so every part is covered.
Now, take the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, and sprinkle it all over the chicken. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Rub it in so the chicken gets a nice coating. This is where the flavor comes from, so take your time here.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it preheat for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating is important because it helps the chicken cook evenly and get that golden-brown color on the outside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once your air fryer is preheated, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Be sure they’re not crowded, so the hot air can circulate all around them.
Now, cook the chicken at 400°F for 10 minutes. After that, flip the thighs over so the skin side is facing up. Cook for another 10–12 minutes.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
You’ll want to make sure the chicken is fully cooked. Stick a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (75°C). If it’s not quite there yet, let it cook for another 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay locked inside, making the chicken even juicier.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! I love serving these chicken thighs with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. My go-to side is roasted pattypan squash—it’s sweet and buttery and goes perfectly with the chicken.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs Every Time
- Pat them dry: Dry skin = crispy skin.
- Don’t crowd the basket: The air fryer needs room for the hot air to circulate, so space out your chicken thighs.
- Use a thermometer: This is the best way to make sure your chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
- Flavor it up: You can mix and match your spices. Try adding chili powder for a little heat or lemon zest for a fresh twist!
FAQs for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
1. How long do I cook chicken thighs in the air fryer?
Cook chicken thighs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-22 minutes. Start by cooking them skin-side down for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer?
Yes, you can! For frozen chicken thighs, cook at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Start by cooking them skin-side down, then flip halfway through. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Why are my air fryer chicken thighs not crispy?
If your chicken thighs aren’t crispy, make sure you’re patting them dry before cooking. Moisture on the skin will prevent it from crisping up. Also, be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can affect airflow and result in less crispy skin.
4. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. However, they may cook faster, so check for doneness at the 15-minute mark. You might also miss out on the crispy skin, but the chicken will still be juicy and flavorful.
5. How do I make my air fryer chicken thighs juicy?
To keep your chicken thighs juicy, make sure not to overcook them. The best way to ensure juiciness is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking will help keep the juices locked inside
6. Can I marinate the chicken thighs before cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor. Just make sure to pat the skin dry before cooking to get that perfect crispiness.
7. What can I serve with air fryer chicken thighs?
Air fryer chicken thighs go great with a variety of sides! You can serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even rice. If you’re looking for something lighter, try pairing them with roasted pattypan squash or a simple steamed veggie.
8. How do I store leftover air fryer chicken thighs?
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to keep the skin crispy.
9. Can I use the air fryer for other chicken thigh recipes?
Yes! The air fryer is perfect for a variety of chicken thighs recipes, from spicy to sweet, or even tangy marinades. Try experimenting with different spice blends or sauces to make air fryer chicken thighs recipes that suit your taste!
10. What temperature should chicken thighs be when fully cooked?
Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe Card
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika smoked paprika is optional for extra flavor
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Prep Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken.
Preheat Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Cook Chicken (10 mins – Skin-side Down):
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
Flip and Cook (10-12 mins – Skin-side Up):
- After 10 minutes, flip the thighs over so the skin side is facing up. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
- If using skinless thighs, reduce cooking time slightly and check for doneness.
Air fryer chicken thighs are a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner. Whether you’re new to air fryer recipes or a seasoned pro, these crispy and juicy air fryer chicken thighs will definitely satisfy your cravings. From air fried chicken to air fryer chicken thighs recipes, the possibilities are endless.
Check out Air Fryer Chicken recipes:
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Wings
- Homemade Air Fryer Chicken Buffalo Wings
- Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings Recipe
- Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Sweet Chili Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Hawaiian-Style Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Check out for Crockpot versions below:
- Crockpot Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings
- Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken Wings
- Crockpot Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
- Easy Crockpot Honey Chicken Wings
With just a few ingredients, you can create mouth-watering air fryer chicken dinner that’s both easy and full of flavor. Whether you’re trying out new air fryer oven recipes or looking for air fryer recipes using chicken thighs, this is the perfect starting point.
These airfryer chicken thighs offer the ideal balance of tender meat and crispy skin, making them a go-to meal for busy nights. So, if you’ve been searching for chicken thigh recipes air fryer, look no further—this recipe is your answer to juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Enjoy your air fryer chicken juicy, and don’t forget to try out different chicken thighs air fryer ideas for more delicious variations.
