Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick and easy meal to make for dinner. They are also a healthy option, as they are low-carb and high in protein. The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. The cooking time depends on the type of chicken thigh and the model of the air fryer, but it usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes to cook boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer.

Seasoning and prep

Ingredients

First, you'll need to gather your ingredients. The exact quantities will depend on how many chicken thighs you're cooking and your personal taste preferences. Here's a list of common ingredients used in seasoning chicken thighs for the air fryer:

• Boneless chicken thighs
• Olive oil, canola oil, avocado oil, or cooking spray
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Brown sugar
• Dried parsley

Prepping the Chicken

Before you season the chicken, you'll want to prep it. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken dry. If your chicken thighs are sold as little bundles, you can leave them as they are to save space in the air fryer. Alternatively, you can unroll them to create a flatter surface for seasoning and browning.

Seasoning

Combine your chosen seasonings in a small bowl and mix well. Then, use your hands to coat the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning mixture. Make sure to season both sides of the chicken. You can also use your fingers to gently rub the seasoning into the chicken to ensure it adheres well.

Cooking Spray

If you're not using cooking spray, brush the chicken thighs with a little olive oil. This step is essential to achieving that crispy exterior.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to between 380-400°F (190-200°C). Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-15 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 4-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer will depend on a few factors, such as whether the thighs are in bundles or unrolled, and whether they have skin.

For boneless skinless chicken thighs in bundles, cook for 10 minutes and then flip and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. If your thighs are unrolled, cook for 10 minutes without flipping. The internal temperature should be 165°F.

If your boneless chicken thighs have skin, cook for 10 minutes on one side (skin-side down) and then flip and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until they reach 165°F.

Bone-in chicken thighs with or without skin should be cooked for 15 minutes and then flipped and cooked for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until they reach 165°F.

For juicy, tender chicken, it's important not to overcook the meat. You can also brush or spray the chicken with a little olive oil or avocado oil before cooking to promote crispiness and prevent drying out.

Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer, while others recommend setting the temperature when you put the chicken in the basket.

Tips for cooking chicken thighs in the air fryer

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
• Rest the chicken for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices settle.
• For extra flavour, marinate the chicken before cooking.

How to store leftovers

Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. It is important to let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the chicken soggy. To further prevent sogginess, it is recommended to line the container with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.

Alternatively, you can store leftover chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag. Create a makeshift vacuum seal by folding the bag over itself to remove excess air. You can also wrap the chicken in several layers of aluminium foil, ensuring there are no air bubbles or tears.

When it comes to reheating your leftover chicken thighs, avoid using the microwave, as this can make the chicken soggy. Instead, use an oven, air fryer, or deep fryer to retain the chicken's crisp texture. If using an oven, preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the chicken on a baking sheet covered with aluminium foil. Reheat for around 12 minutes, or until the chicken is crisp. For an air fryer, preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the chicken for about two minutes on each side. If you're up for some extra work, you can deep fry your leftovers again by heating oil to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and cooking each piece for a couple of minutes on each side.

Chicken thigh alternatives

Chicken thighs are a versatile ingredient, but if you're looking for alternatives, there are a few options you can consider.

Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts are a popular alternative to chicken thighs and can be used in a variety of recipes. They are convenient to cook and are often perceived as a healthier option due to their lower fat content. However, it's important to note that chicken breasts cook faster than thighs and can easily become dry if overcooked. When substituting chicken breasts, keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F without drying out. Additionally, you may need to add a bit more oil or butter to the pan to compensate for the lower fat content.

Bone-in Chicken Thighs

If you're looking for an alternative to boneless chicken thighs, you can certainly use bone-in chicken thighs. They are flavorful, juicy, and can be cooked in the air fryer as well. However, bone-in chicken thighs will take longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check if they are cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Other Meat Alternatives

While chicken is a popular choice, you can also explore other types of meat depending on the dish you're preparing. For example, you could try using turkey, pork, or beef as an alternative protein source. These meats will have different cooking times and flavors, so adjust your recipes accordingly.

Chicken thigh sides

Now that you've got your chicken thighs sizzling away in the air fryer, it's time to think about sides! Here are some ideas to complement your juicy, tender chicken:

Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables: Try cauliflower, parmesan zucchini, broccoli, carrots, or brussels sprouts.
• Air-fried veggies: You could also air-fry some vegetables at the same time as your chicken. Try zucchini, broccoli, or brussels sprouts.
• Mashed potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash will go well with the chicken.
• Rice or quinoa: Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or go for quinoa or rice pilaf.
• Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad like kale or strawberry goat cheese salad will add some colour to your plate.

More Substantial Sides

• Soup: Chicken thighs go well with classic tomato soup, or something more indulgent like cauliflower leek and potato soup.
• Pasta: Try creamy lemon caper pasta or roasted butternut squash pasta.
• Bread: Add some garlic bread or dinner rolls to mop up those juices.

Sides to Share

If you're cooking for a crowd, here are some side dishes that will complement your chicken thighs and can be easily shared:

• Mac and cheese: Try a cauliflower version for a healthier option.
• Baked potatoes: These always go down well and can be loaded up with toppings.
• Roasted potatoes and carrots: Glazed with garlic butter, these will be a hit!

Frequently asked questions