Air-Frying Chicken Thighs: How Long Does It Take?

Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken pieces, whether they are boneless or bone-in, and the model of the air fryer. On average, chicken thighs take between 12 to 25 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

How to get the skin crispy

How to Get Crispy Skin on Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Choose Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the best choice for achieving crispy skin. The bone helps keep the meat juicy, and the skin crisps up nicely during cooking. If you use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the cooking time will be shorter, but the skin won't get as crispy.

Step 2: Pat the Chicken Thighs Dry

Before seasoning and cooking the chicken thighs, it's important to pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps ensure that the skin will be crispy. Remove any excess moisture from the surface of the chicken thighs before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Season the Chicken Thighs

You can use a variety of seasonings on your chicken thighs, but a simple mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper is a great option. You can also try adding cornstarch to the seasoning mix, as this helps the skin get extra crispy. Place the chicken thighs in a bowl, drizzle with cooking oil, and then add your chosen seasonings. Toss the chicken until it's well coated.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 375F and 400F. Some recipes suggest spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray or avocado oil spray at this point to promote crispiness.

Step 5: Place the Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer Basket

Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side down, in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching and that there is enough space for air to circulate around them. You may need to cook the chicken in batches if your air fryer is not large enough.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your chicken thighs, but a good starting point is to air fry the chicken thighs for 12 minutes at 400F, then flip them over and cook for an additional 7-12 minutes. If you are using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, there is no need to flip them during cooking. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (but not touching the bone). If the chicken is not yet done, continue cooking in 2-4 minute increments until it reaches the correct temperature.

Step 7: Let the Chicken Thighs Rest

Once the chicken thighs have reached the correct internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting into them. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring juicy and tender chicken.

How to cook boneless chicken thighs

Boneless chicken thighs are a great option for a quick and easy meal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook them in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Olive oil or cooking oil
• Spices/seasonings of your choice (e.g. smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, pepper)
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F to 400°F. It is recommended to preheat for about 5 minutes.
• Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub or drizzle them with olive oil or cooking oil. This helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
• Season the chicken: You can use a variety of spices and seasonings to suit your taste. Try a simple mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, pepper (optional). You can also experiment with other blends, such as garlic herb seasoning, Italian seasoning, or curry powder. Place the chicken in a bowl and sprinkle or rub the seasonings over the chicken pieces.
• Cook the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook at 380°F to 400°F for 11 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Boneless chicken thighs generally take less time to cook than bone-in thighs. You can flip them halfway through for more even cooking.
• Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy, tender chicken thigh.

Tips and Variations:

• You can use fresh or frozen chicken thighs. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by a few minutes and consider using cooking spray or oil to help the seasonings stick.
• For extra crispy skin, consider using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture from the chicken before seasoning and cooking.
• If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
• While bone-in chicken thighs are recommended for maximum juiciness, boneless thighs are a great option if you want to slice the chicken and add it to salads or other dishes.
• Get creative with your seasonings! You can use a variety of spice blends to suit your taste preferences and create different flavors.
• Air fryer chicken thighs go well with simple side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salads, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your delicious and juicy air fryer boneless chicken thighs!

How to cook frozen chicken thighs

Ingredients and Seasoning

You will need frozen chicken thighs. You can use any kind of chicken thighs, but the cooking time and temperature will vary depending on whether they are boneless or bone-in, and skinless or skin-on. For example, boneless chicken thighs will need less time to cook than bone-in thighs. Skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for the best results, but you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs and adjust the timings accordingly.

You can use any seasoning blend you like. A basic blend could include onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper. You can also add a little oil to help the seasonings stick; avocado, olive, or any neutral-flavoured oil will work. Alternatively, you can spritz the chicken with water.

Air Fryer Preparation

Most air fryers have an inner container with a basket or tray on top. Before you add the chicken, put 1 cup of very hot water into the inner container. This creates steam which helps to thaw the chicken more quickly, preventing the meat from drying out.

Cooking the Chicken Thighs

Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on the rack or in the basket of your air fryer. Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F/200°C and the time for 15 minutes. When the time is up, open the air fryer and flip the chicken. Reduce the temperature to 325°F/160°C and set the time to 25 minutes. After 15 minutes at this temperature, open the air fryer and flip the chicken again. The internal temperature should now be around 150°F/60°C.

You can either keep the temperature at 325°F/160°C for another 5-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F/71-74°C. Or, if you want the skin to be crispier, increase the temperature back up to 400°F/200°C for 5-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F/71°C.

Serving

Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to reheat chicken thighs

If you're looking to reheat chicken thighs, there are a few ways to go about it. You can use an air fryer, an oven, or even a microwave. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to reheat chicken thighs:

Using an Air Fryer:

• Take the frozen chicken thighs out of the freezer and let them thaw overnight. This is an important step to ensure even reheating.
• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F or a similar temperature setting. You want the air fryer to be nice and hot before adding the chicken.
• Place the thawed chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. This ensures that the hot air circulates evenly around each piece.
• Reheat the chicken thighs for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook or dry out.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. The safe temperature for consuming chicken is 165°F.
• Once they have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Using an Oven:

• Take the frozen chicken thighs out of the freezer and let them thaw overnight, similar to the air fryer method.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the thawed chicken thighs in an oven-safe dish or baking sheet. You may want to cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.
• Reheat the chicken thighs in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size and thickness. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't dry out.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached 165°F.
• Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Using a Microwave:

• Take the frozen chicken thighs out of the freezer and let them thaw, but you can also reheat them directly from frozen in the microwave.
• Place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate or dish.
• Cover the chicken thighs with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, depending on their size and your microwave's power.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached 165°F. If not, continue reheating in short intervals until they reach the desired temperature.
• Remove from the microwave and let them rest for a minute before serving.

Remember, it's important to ensure that your chicken thighs are properly reheated to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and don't skip the thawing process, especially when using the air fryer or oven methods. Enjoy your delicious, safely reheated chicken thighs!

What to serve with chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to accompany your air fryer chicken thighs:

Salads

A fresh and healthy option to serve with chicken thighs is a salad. Some specific types of salad that pair well with chicken thighs include:

• Asparagus and spinach salad: This elegant salad combines the flavours of asparagus, bacon, blue cheese, pecans and a tangy dressing.
• Couscous salad: With an assortment of vegetables, herbs and a zesty dressing, this salad adds a burst of freshness to your plate.
• Roasted beet salad: Earthy sweet beets, peppery arugula and tangy goat cheese make a great contrast to savoury chicken.

Vegetables

Vegetables are a great side to serve with chicken thighs, and there are many ways to prepare them. Here are some vegetable side ideas:

• Green beans: Lightly sautéed in garlic and olive oil with a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds or grated parmesan.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These little veggies caramelise and sweeten when roasted, offering a wonderful contrast to savoury chicken.
• Grilled asparagus: Grilled asparagus stalks develop a smoky flavour and slightly crisp exterior, contrasting well with their tender interior.
• Zucchini ribbons: A simple and light option, made by using a vegetable peeler to create zucchini ribbons, which can be spooned onto each chicken thigh before serving.
• Broccoli and cauliflower gratin: Smother broccoli and cauliflower in Gruyère cheese and heavy cream for a delicious, creamy green side.

Starchy Sides

Starchier sides can help to fill out a meal and satisfy hunger. Here are some starchy side ideas:

• French fries: Golden, crispy and fluffy, French fries are an irresistible accompaniment to chicken thighs.
• Baked tater tots: A classic side that is loved by both children and adults.
• Loaded baked potatoes: Add bacon bits, chives, sour cream or melted cheese to your baked potatoes for a comforting side.
• Mashed sweet potatoes: The creamy texture and inherent sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes make a great contrast to savoury chicken.
• Waffle fries: Bake these chunky fries and serve with ketchup or chipotle mayo for dipping.
• Cauliflower tots: A crispy and healthy treat.

More Substantial Sides

If you want to serve something more substantial alongside your chicken thighs, here are some ideas:

• Smoked gouda mac and cheese: A delicious, comforting side dish.
• Spinach artichoke dip: Usually served as an appetiser, but it also works well as a side.
• Buttermilk biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits can soak up the delicious juices of the chicken.
• Stuffed bell peppers: These taste like a complete meal, with rice and ground beef inside, topped with green onions, sour cream and shredded cheese.

Frequently asked questions