Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs: Perfect Timing For Juicy Results

Cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get juicy meat with a crispy skin. The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken pieces, whether they have bones, and the model of the air fryer. As a guide, boneless chicken thighs should be fully cooked after about 18 minutes in an air fryer preheated to 400°F. Bone-in chicken thighs will take a little longer, around 16 to 22 minutes at 400°F.

How to get the skin crispy

To get the skin of your chicken thighs crispy, follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat the air fryer

Before you put the chicken in, preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 375°F/190°C and 400°F.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

Use a paper towel to soak up any excess moisture on the chicken thighs. Then, rub or brush the chicken with oil, followed by the seasonings. You can also put the chicken in a large zip-top bag or a bowl with a lid and shake to coat.

Step 3: Place the chicken in the air fryer

Place the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side down, in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other. If they don't all fit, cook the chicken in batches.

Step 4: Air fry the chicken

Air fry the chicken thighs for 12-24 minutes, flipping them over about halfway through. If you want your chicken thighs super crispy, cook for 4-minute increments until you reach your desired crispness.

Step 5: Check the internal temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They are ready when the thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (but not touching the bone) reaches 155°F. The temperature will continue to rise to 165°F as the chicken rests.

How to cook from frozen

Cooking chicken thighs from frozen in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a delicious, juicy, and crispy-skinned dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Firstly, you'll want to preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature for cooking chicken thighs is around 380-400°F (190-200°C). Preheat your air fryer to this temperature for about 5 minutes to ensure it's nice and hot.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Take your frozen chicken thighs out of the freezer. You can use either bone-in or boneless thighs, but skin-on thighs will give you that delicious crispy skin. If your chicken thighs are stuck together, run them under cold water to separate them. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this step is important to ensure you get crispy skin.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Brush the chicken thighs with olive oil. This will help the seasonings stick and also help lock in moisture. In a small bowl, mix your chosen seasonings. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, or get creative with additions like Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasonings generously over the chicken thighs, making sure to get a good coating.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Cook times may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your chicken thighs, but as a guide, cook boneless chicken thighs for around 18-20 minutes, and bone-in thighs for 20-25 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Check Doneness and Serve

To ensure your chicken thighs are cooked through, use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

And that's it! You now have juicy, crispy-skinned chicken thighs that are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Serve them with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

How to store and reheat

Now that you've cooked your chicken thighs in the air fryer, you'll want to store and reheat them properly to maintain their delicious flavour and texture. Here's a guide to help you do just that.

Storing Chicken Thighs:

It's best to store your leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container or a plastic storage bag with a tight seal. Make sure to refrigerate them if you plan on eating them within a few days, maintaining a temperature of 41°F or less. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them, but ensure your freezer is set to 0°F or less. Proper storage will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of your chicken thighs.

Reheating Chicken Thighs:

There are several ways to reheat your chicken thighs, each with its pros and cons:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, adding a cup of chicken broth or water, and cover with foil. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method is best for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and helps keep the skin crispy.
• Microwave: While not ideal for breaded, bone-in, or skin-on chicken thighs, the microwave is a quick option for boneless, skinless pieces. Arrange the chicken in a microwave-safe dish with smaller pieces in the centre and larger ones on the outer edge. Add a tablespoon or two of water to prevent drying and cover with a damp paper towel or plastic wrap. Reheat for 2 minutes, then flip and heat in 30-second intervals until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Stovetop: This method is best for boneless, skinless chicken thighs as it can dry out the meat. Place enough water in a large skillet to cover the bottom and set it over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and lower the heat to medium. Cover and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.

Remember, regardless of the reheating method, always ensure your chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they're safe to eat.

What to serve with chicken thighs

Now that you've cooked your chicken thighs in the air fryer, it's time to think about what to serve with them. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement your juicy, crispy chicken thighs:

Vegetables

• Asparagus – grilled asparagus makes an elegant companion to chicken thighs. You can season it with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. For extra flavour, finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
• Brussels sprouts – these can be roasted or cooked in a skillet with crispy pancetta breadcrumbs. When roasted, Brussels sprouts caramelise and sweeten, offering a wonderful contrast to the savoury chicken.
• Green beans – sautéed lightly in garlic and olive oil, green beans make an exceptional side for chicken thighs. Adding toasted slivered almonds or grated Parmesan can further enhance their appeal.
• Zucchini – grilled zucchini, with its slightly smoky flavour and tender-crisp texture, adds a wonderful touch to a plate of chicken thighs. You can also make zucchini ribbons by using a vegetable peeler to create thin strips.
• Spinach – creamed spinach, with its silky texture and rich, cheesy flavour, makes a luxurious companion to chicken thighs.
• Broccoli – smother it with Gruyère cheese and heavy cream to make a broccoli and cauliflower gratin.
• Cauliflower – you can serve this in many ways, including mashed, roasted, or as cauliflower tots.
• Carrots – try whole roasted carrots or pair them with potatoes for a mix of roasted carrots and potatoes.
• Beets – roast them and serve as a side or make them into a beet and citrus salad.

Starches

• Mashed sweet potatoes – the creamy texture and inherent sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes make a great side dish for chicken thighs. A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can further enhance the flavour.
• French fries – you can never go wrong with a side of perfectly cooked French fries. For an extra twist, serve them with spicy mayo or tangy barbecue sauce.
• Baked tater tots – a side dish loved by both children and adults. You can dress them up by adding bacon bits or cheese before baking.
• Waffle fries – bake them and serve with ketchup or chipotle mayo.
• Baked potatoes – load them up with bacon bits, chives, sour cream, or melted cheese.
• Mac and cheese – a comforting side dish, especially if you use smoked gouda.
• Couscous salad – a bright and fresh partner for chicken thighs, especially with an assortment of vegetables and a zesty dressing.
• Quinoa – cook it in chicken broth and toss it with a medley of herbs for a healthy and delicious side.
• Rice – Spanish rice is a hearty, robust side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken thighs. You could also try kimchi fried rice or coconut rice.
• Bread – serve chicken thighs with buttermilk biscuits or cornbread for a homey and comforting side.

Salads

• Green salad – a simple veggie side that goes well with chicken thighs.
• Cucumber quinoa salad – this refreshing salad is fabulous with barbecued chicken thighs.
• Roasted beet salad – a vibrant side dish with earthy sweetness from the beets, combined with peppery arugula and tangy goat cheese.
• Kale salad – with persimmons, crispy chickpeas, and fried shallots, this salad might just upstage the main dish.
• Tomato salad – try a watermelon, tomato, and feta farro salad for a summertime staple.

Other ideas

• Onion rings – crispy, golden onion rings make a fantastic partner for chicken thighs, especially with a side of tangy ketchup or creamy aioli.
• Cannellini beans – gently simmer them with herbs and garlic for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
• Stuffed bell peppers – these taste like a complete meal. Fill them with rice, ground beef, green onions, and cheese.
• Spinach artichoke dip – a popular side dish that can be served as an appetizer or alongside the main course.

How to season chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are a versatile dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from air fryers to ovens and even on a stovetop. Here are some tips and tricks to help you season chicken thighs to perfection.

Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

The first step to delicious chicken thighs is choosing the right type. You can opt for bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless chicken thighs. Bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavourful, but they may require a bit more cooking time. If you're short on time, boneless and skinless chicken thighs are a great option, but be aware that you'll be missing out on that crispy skin.

Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Before you start seasoning, it's important to pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Removing any excess moisture will help the spices adhere better and promote a crispier skin. If there is any excess skin, you can trim it away. You can also cut slits or make small incisions in the chicken thighs to help the seasoning penetrate deeper and enhance the flavour.

Selecting Seasonings

Now comes the fun part—selecting your seasonings! You can go as simple or as creative as you like. Here are some popular options:

• Salt and pepper: This dynamic duo is a classic for a reason. Salt helps to enhance the natural flavour of the chicken, while pepper adds a subtle kick.
• Smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavour to the chicken thighs. It's a versatile spice that can be used on its own or in combination with other seasonings.
• Garlic powder: Garlic powder is a must-have in any spice rack. It adds a savoury punch to the chicken and pairs well with other spices.
• Onion powder: Onion powder brings a subtle sweetness to the dish, balancing out the other flavours.
• Dried herbs: Try using dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning to add a fragrant touch to your chicken thighs.
• Spicy kick: If you like it hot, add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chilli powder to the mix.
• Citrus twist: Squeeze some lemon or lime juice over the chicken thighs for a bright, tangy flavour.

Applying the Seasonings

Once you've gathered your seasonings, it's time to apply them to the chicken thighs. You can place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a bowl and add the seasonings. Shake the bag or mix the contents of the bowl to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. You can also use your hands to rub the seasonings into the chicken, making sure to cover all sides.

Marinating (Optional)

For even more flavour, you can let the seasoned chicken thighs marinate in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or leave them in the zip-top bag and let them sit for at least an hour or even overnight. This allows the flavours to truly penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Chicken Thighs

Finally, it's time to cook your delicious, seasoned chicken thighs. Follow the instructions for your chosen cooking method, whether it's air frying, baking, or pan-frying. Make sure to cook the chicken thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are cooked through.

And there you have it! Perfectly seasoned chicken thighs that are sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with different seasoning combinations and cooking methods to find your favourite way to prepare this versatile dish.

Frequently asked questions