Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs: Crispy, Quick, And Easy!

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a quick, easy, and healthy meal option. They are perfect for busy weeknights as they can be cooked in under 25 minutes, with little to no prep time. The chicken thighs are tender, juicy, and flavourful with a crispy texture. They are also gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and keto-friendly. The key to juicy chicken is to marinate it beforehand, and you can use a variety of seasonings to suit your taste.

Preparation and seasoning

Preparing the chicken is a simple process. First, trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Then, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. If you are using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it before cooking.

Now, it's time to season the chicken. There are several seasoning options to choose from, depending on your taste preferences.

One option is to use a blend of spices, including smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. You can also add olive oil, which helps with marinating and ensures even cooking. Alternatively, you can use avocado or olive oil spray. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning mixture, using your hands to ensure each piece is well covered.

Another option is to use a Greek yogurt marinade. In a blender, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and half of your preferred Cajun seasoning until smooth. Ensure the chicken thighs are evenly coated in the marinade, then cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours. After marinating, remove the chicken from the dish, leaving only a thin layer of marinade on each thigh. Season with the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and any dried herbs of your choice, such as herbs de Provence.

You can also add brown sugar to your seasoning mixture for a hint of sweetness. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder to create a unique flavor profile.

Remember, the key to juicy chicken thighs is to ensure they are well-coated with the seasoning or marinade and to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket during cooking.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer will depend on the size of the chicken thighs, the temperature you are air frying at, and the model of the air fryer. It is important to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illnesses and to avoid overcooking, which can result in dry chicken.

To achieve the desired internal temperature, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to between 380°F and 400°F. The cooking time can vary from 14 to 20 minutes, depending on the factors mentioned above. It is important to flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

For example, one recipe suggests preheating the air fryer to 390°F and cooking the chicken thighs for a total of 18 minutes, flipping them after the first 8 minutes. Another recipe recommends cooking the chicken thighs at 400°F for 14 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

It is worth noting that bone-in chicken thighs will require a longer cook time than boneless skinless chicken thighs. Additionally, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

To enhance the flavor and texture of the chicken thighs, it is suggested to marinate or brine them before cooking. This can help retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.

Flipping and internal temperature

Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process is essential to ensure your boneless skinless chicken thighs cook evenly on both sides. Depending on the air fryer model and temperature, the total cooking time can vary from 14 to 20 minutes. For example, at 390°F, the chicken thighs should be cooked for about 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Similarly, at 400°F, the cooking time is 14 minutes, again flipping halfway.

To flip the chicken, use tongs to handle the chicken pieces carefully. This will prevent the chicken from falling apart and ensure even cooking.

The internal temperature of the chicken thighs is a crucial factor in determining doneness. Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at their thickest point. This temperature reading should be taken with an instant-read thermometer to ensure food safety.

Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, being careful not to touch the bone if you are using bone-in chicken. The temperature reading should reach 165°F to indicate that the chicken is cooked through and safe to consume.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs. Larger chicken thighs may require a couple of extra minutes in the air fryer. Therefore, it is always recommended to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked properly.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are versatile and can be served as a main course, in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. They are a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, requiring minimal preparation and cleanup. Here are some serving suggestions to complement the juicy and tender chicken:

Salads

For a light and healthy option, serve the chicken thighs sliced on top of a big salad. This makes for a delicious and nutritious weekday meal. You can pair the chicken with a variety of salad options, such as a kale salad with tahini dressing, a couscous and sweet potato salad, or an orzo pesto salad.

Sides

The chicken thighs can be served with a range of hot or cold sides. Some side dish ideas include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish. For a gluten-free and low-carb option, consider serving the chicken with air fryer bok choy or skillet-fried cabbage. Quinoa, couscous, and rice are also tasty accompaniments.

Squeeze of Lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a delightful tang to the dish. It pairs well with the spices used in the chicken seasoning.

Herbs

Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top of the chicken for a bright, herbal note. You can also experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives.

Vegetables

For a well-rounded meal, serve the chicken with roasted or air-fried vegetables. Some options include sweet potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, or carrots. You can also serve them with a side of steamed or sautéed greens, such as spinach, kale, or Swiss chard.

Dips and Sauces

Create a variety of dips and sauces to accompany the chicken. Options can include a tangy yogurt dip, a spicy pepper sauce, a creamy garlic aioli, or a classic barbecue sauce. These additions will elevate the dish and provide extra flavor and moisture.

With these serving suggestions, you can create a delicious and varied meal using air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs as the star ingredient.

Storing and reheating

If you want to keep the chicken for longer, you can freeze it. Place the cooked and cooled chicken in a sealed container, freezer bag, or ziplock bag and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month to 3 months.

When you're ready to reheat the chicken, there are a few different methods you can use. If you're reheating from frozen, it's important to thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator first. You can then reheat the chicken in the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

To reheat in the air fryer, place the chicken thighs skin side up (if they have skin) in the air fryer and heat at 350°F for 4 to 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and the meat is warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven or microwave for 45 to 90 seconds until warmed through, although using the air fryer or oven will help retain the texture better than microwaving.

It's worth noting that if you're reheating chicken with skin, the skin may not stay crispy after being refrigerated or frozen, so you may need to adjust your cooking method or serving expectations accordingly.

Frequently asked questions