Cody Casey
Air fryers are a great way to cook chicken thighs, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of your air fryer, but generally, chicken thighs are cooked within 20-30 minutes. The bone-in, skin-on variety is preferred by many as the bone keeps the meat juicy and the skin gets crispy. However, boneless chicken thighs are also a good option, especially if you want to slice the chicken up and add it to a salad.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 380F-400F |
| Cook Time | 24-30 minutes |
| Cook Time (skin side down) | 12 minutes |
| Cook Time (skin side up) | 10-15 minutes |
| Internal Temperature | 165F |
| Spices | Smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, salt, pepper, lemon juice, thyme, cilantro, parsley |
| Other Ingredients | Olive oil, baking powder |
| Preparation | Pat the chicken dry before cooking |
| Storage | Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days |
| Reheating | Place in the air fryer, skin side up, at 350F for 6-8 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking time for bone-in chicken thighs
Bone-in chicken thighs are a great option for a juicy and flavourful meal. They are typically cooked in an air fryer between 375F and 400F for 12 to 22 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
Preparation
Before cooking, bone-in chicken thighs can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs. Some common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs. It is also recommended to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Additionally, a secret ingredient to achieving extra crispy skin is to add a small amount of baking powder to the skin before cooking.
Cooking
When cooking, it is important to preheat the air fryer. The ideal temperature for cooking bone-in chicken thighs is between 375F and 400F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of the air fryer, but on average, they will take around 12 to 22 minutes to cook through. It is important to flip the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Serving
Bone-in chicken thighs can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, salads, quinoa, soup, or pasta. They can also be paired with a dipping sauce, such as lemon wedges, to enhance the flavour.
Safety
It is important to ensure that chicken is cooked thoroughly to prevent foodborne illnesses. The FDA recommends that chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165F. This can be checked using a meat thermometer.
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Cooking time for boneless chicken thighs
Boneless chicken thighs are a great option if you want to slice the chicken up and add it to a salad. They are also healthier than chicken breasts, as they have more fat and calories, but are packed with protein and other nutrients.
When cooking boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer, you should first pat the chicken dry on both sides and then add them to a bowl with a spice mixture. This spice mixture typically includes paprika, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. You can also add olive oil to the bowl to help the seasoning stick to the chicken.
Once the chicken is coated in the spice mixture, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side down, making sure they are not touching. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches.
The cooking time for boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer will vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of your air fryer. On average, you should cook boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer for around 12 minutes on each side, for a total of 24 minutes. However, some sources suggest cooking them for 17-18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on your desired level of crispiness. If you want your chicken thighs to be super crispy, you can cook them for an additional 4 minutes at a time until they reach your desired level of crispness.
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that your chicken is juicy and flavorful.
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How to get crispy skin
To get crispy skin on your chicken thighs, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, ensure you are using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as the bone helps keep the meat juicy, and the skin will crisp up nicely. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim away any excess skin or fat. Next, rub the chicken thighs with olive oil to help the seasoning stick, and then apply a dry rub of spices. You can use a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or herbs de Provence. Don't forget to season the meat generously with salt. For extra crispy skin, a secret ingredient is to add a pinch of baking powder to the skin and rub it in until no longer visible.
Now, it's time to air fry! Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F for 5 minutes. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down, making sure they are not overlapping. This will allow the hot air to circulate, crisping up the skin. Depending on your air fryer, cook the chicken thighs skin-side down for 10-12 minutes, then flip them over and cook skin-side up for another 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken thighs should reach 165°F when they are done. If you want your chicken thighs even crispier, you can cook them in additional 3-4 minute increments until they reach your desired level of crispness.
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What to serve with chicken thighs
Chicken thighs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with chicken thighs:
Salads
A salad is a refreshing and healthy option to serve with chicken thighs. You can keep it simple with a mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Or, you can get creative with your ingredients and try a spinach and tomato salad with feta cheese, or a strawberry pecan spinach salad with a tangy dressing. If you're looking for something more substantial, a quinoa salad or a pasta salad can be a great option.
Vegetables
There are many vegetables that pair well with chicken thighs. Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, onions, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts can add a healthy crunch to your meal. For a heartier option, try roasted butternut squash or beets. If you're short on time, steaming or boiling vegetables like broccoli or green beans is a quick and easy way to add some nutrients to your plate.
Starches
Chicken thighs go well with a variety of starches. Roasted potatoes, whether crispy wedges or creamy mashed, are always a crowd-pleaser. Rice, especially with green onions or garlic, is another great option. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try cauliflower Mac and cheese or keto green beans with bacon. For a more exotic flavour, you could make jeera rice or naan to accompany your chicken thighs.
Fruits
Fruits can add a sweet and tangy twist to your meal. Try a tomato peach salad with ripe peaches, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. Not only does it taste good, but it also looks vibrant and summery.
Sauces and dips
Sauces and dips can elevate your chicken thigh dish to the next level. You can try a curry-like "gravy" to pour over your rice and chicken, or a garlic-onion aioli for a more intense flavour. If you're looking for something creamy, a Mexican vegan crema can add a luscious touch to your meal.
Other dishes
Chicken thighs are a versatile protein that can be served with a variety of other dishes. If you're looking for something comforting, chicken and potatoes is a classic combination. You can also try chicken tinga tacos or chicken Milanese for a more international flavour.
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How to store and reheat chicken thighs
Storage:
Leftover chicken thighs should ideally be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. This ensures that the chicken remains consumable for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Chicken thighs can be frozen for longer-term storage. It is recommended to use airtight freezer-safe containers for this purpose, and they can be safely stored for up to 3 months.
Thawing:
When you're ready to cook the frozen chicken thighs, it is important to thaw them completely before reheating. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating in an Air Fryer:
The air fryer is an excellent appliance to reheat chicken thighs, yielding juicy and tender meat with a crispy skin. Preheat your air fryer to 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit. If your chicken thighs have the skin on, lightly brush them with oil to enhance the crispness of the skin. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is some space between each piece for even heating. Reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the skin is crispy. It is recommended to flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time for more even heating.
Checking for Doneness:
To ensure your chicken thighs are safely cooked, it is advisable to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken thighs should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
Other Reheating Methods:
While the air fryer is a superior option, chicken thighs can also be reheated in a conventional oven or a microwave. However, the oven method may take longer due to preheating requirements, and the microwave may result in rubbery or unevenly heated meat.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes about 20-30 minutes to cook chicken thighs in an air fryer.
The air fryer should be set to 380-400°F.
The chicken thighs are cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer.
To get the skin crispy, rub the chicken thighs with baking powder and place them skin side down in the air fryer. You can also pat the skin dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
