Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Cooking Time Perfection

Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a tasty, crispy finish. Air-fried chicken is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, in salads, wraps, or sandwiches. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, taking as little as 15 minutes to cook. However, the cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs, the temperature, and the model of the air fryer. In this article, we will explore different recipes and methods for cooking boneless, skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer, so you can find the perfect technique for your needs.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer vary depending on the model of the air fryer, the size of the chicken thighs, and personal preference for the level of doneness.

According to one source, the ideal temperature for cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer is 380°F for 10 minutes on one side, and then 4-5 minutes on the other side. The chicken thighs are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Another source recommends cooking at 390°F/200°C for 8 minutes on each side, again ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

A third option is to cook the chicken thighs at 400°F for 16 to 22 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This method also relies on checking the internal temperature, which should be 155°F at the thickest part of the thigh.

Some people prefer to cook their chicken thighs for a shorter amount of time, such as 7-10 minutes at 350°F, or even just 7 minutes at 400°F. However, it is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.

It is worth noting that bone-in chicken thighs may take longer to cook than boneless chicken thighs, and it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Bone-in vs boneless

Chicken thighs are a popular choice for air fryer recipes because they are inexpensive, delicious, and easy to cook. They are made of dark meat, so they are extra juicy! Chicken thighs can be cooked with or without the bone in an air fryer, but the cooking time and method will differ slightly between the two.

Boneless Chicken Thighs

Boneless chicken thighs are a great option for air fryer cooking because they cook quickly and evenly. The lack of bone means that the meat will cook through faster than bone-in thighs, so you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Boneless chicken thighs are also a good choice if you are looking for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This is because the hot air in the air fryer can circulate directly around the entire surface of the meat, creating a crispy crust while keeping the inside moist and tender.

To cook boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer, start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. Then, drizzle with oil and toss to coat. Combine your favourite seasonings in a small bowl and rub over the chicken thighs. Preheat your air fryer to between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, being sure that they are not overlapping, and cook for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bone-in Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs can also be cooked in the air fryer, and they will result in juicy meat with crispy skin. The bone helps to protect the meat from drying out, but it is still possible to overcook the chicken, so it is important to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The bone will increase the cooking time, so be prepared to cook the chicken thighs for a few minutes longer than you would for boneless thighs.

To cook bone-in chicken thighs in the air fryer, start by patting the chicken dry with a paper towel. Then, drizzle with oil and toss to coat. Combine your favourite seasonings in a small bowl and rub over the chicken thighs. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side down, being sure that they are not touching. Cook for 16 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Marinade and seasoning

When it comes to seasoning and marinade, boneless skinless chicken thighs are incredibly versatile. You can use a simple seasoning of salt and pepper, or a blend of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For a more intense flavour, you can marinate the chicken in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours, or up to 8 hours if time allows. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavour will be.

A tasty marinade can be made by mixing olive oil, herbs, and spices. You can use a blend of dried basil, dried oregano, dried sage, and black pepper, or choose your favourite herbs, such as Herbs de Provence or Italian seasoning. You can also add lemon juice to this mixture for a zesty twist. If you're looking for a creamy marinade, try mixing sour cream, mustard, and rice vinegar.

If you're short on time, you can simply combine all your seasonings in a small bowl and season both sides of the chicken thighs, gently patting the mixture onto the meat.

Remember to trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs before marinating or seasoning, and always cook your chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

Resting and storing

Resting your chicken before and after cooking is an important step in the cooking process. Firstly, resting chicken before breading and frying is crucial as it allows the flavours to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a more flavoursome bite. It also gives the proteins in the chicken time to relax, creating a more tender and juicy texture. Additionally, resting the chicken before breading helps the coating to adhere better to the meat, preventing it from falling off during frying and creating a crispier texture. It is recommended to let the chicken rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying for best results.

After cooking, it is also important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and moist. It also gives the proteins within the meat time to relax and reabsorb some of the lost moisture, helping to prevent the meat from drying out. Depending on the size of the chicken, it should be left to rest for 3-10 minutes before serving.

In terms of storing, cooked chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Leftover chicken is great for meal prep and quick lunches, such as chicken noodle soup or chicken and dumplings.

Sides and serving suggestions

The versatility of boneless skinless chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer means they can be served in a variety of ways. They can be enjoyed as a main course, in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

For a well-rounded and wholesome dinner, pair the chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon and sides like roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. You can also serve them with hot vegetable sides like air fryer bok choy and skillet-fried cabbage.

If you're looking for a more indulgent option, try air fryer baked potatoes or roasted potatoes and carrots with garlic butter. For a quick and easy side, consider skillet roasted potatoes.

For a gluten-free and low-carb option, serve the chicken with quinoa, couscous, or rice. You can also try a celeriac sweet potato mash or a salad like kale salad with tahini dressing, couscous, and sweet potato.

If you're in the mood for something more substantial, the chicken pairs well with stir fry, casseroles, or creamy pasta dishes.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and adapt the dish to your preferences and dietary needs.

Frequently asked questions