Marianne Martinez
Cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer toaster oven is a quick and convenient way to make a delicious, juicy, and tender meal. With a short and simple ingredient list, this recipe is a great option for an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. The air fryer toaster oven cooks the chicken thighs in about 18-20 minutes, making it a faster alternative to the regular oven, with even better results!
Characteristics and Values Table for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 18-22 minutes for toaster-oven-style air fryers; 20-22 minutes for basket-style air fryers; 18 minutes for boneless chicken thighs; 20 minutes for skin-on chicken thighs; 10 minutes on each side for skin-side down chicken thighs; 8-14 minutes for skinless chicken thighs |
| Temperature | 350°F/175°C; 360°F/185°C; 375ºF; 380°F; 400°F/200°C |
| Seasonings | Smoked paprika; garlic powder; salt; pepper; olive oil; onion powder; cayenne; cumin; chili powder; parsley; sage; rosemary; thyme; oregano; lemon zest |
| Storage | Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days; freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-4 months |
| Reheating | Reheat in the oven at 350°F/175°C for about 10 minutes; reheat in the air fryer |
| Nutrition Information | Calories: 256kcal-353kcal; Carbohydrates: 1g-2g; Protein: 18g-24g; Fat: 20g-31g |
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What You'll Learn
How to get crispy skin
To get crispy skin on your chicken thighs, it is important to dry the chicken thoroughly on both sides before cooking. You can pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Then, brush the chicken thighs with olive oil or canola oil. Next, sprinkle your desired seasonings over the chicken pieces and rub them in. You can use a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, or any other spices or herbs you like. Try to get some seasoning under the skin for maximum flavor.
Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10 minutes. Then, flip the chicken thighs over and cook for another 10 minutes or until the skin is crispy and browned. The total cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken pieces and the model of your air fryer, but it usually takes around 18-20 minutes for toaster-oven-style air fryers. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165ºF at the thickest point.
If you are cooking skinless chicken thighs, you do not need to flip them during the cooking time. You can also refrigerate and reheat the chicken thighs to get the skin crispy again.
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How to season chicken thighs
To season chicken thighs for cooking in an air fryer toaster oven, start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Next, brush the chicken thighs with olive oil. The olive oil will help the seasoning stick to the chicken.
Then, prepare your seasoning. A blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is a popular choice, but you can also use sweet paprika for a less smoky flavour. Other seasonings you can use include dried oregano, onion powder, and chipotle powder. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, then turn the thighs over and sprinkle with the remaining seasoning. You can also try to get some seasoning under the skin for maximum flavour.
Finally, place the chicken thighs into the basket of your air fryer, leaving enough space between them to allow hot air to circulate.
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How long to cook chicken thighs for
The cooking time for chicken thighs can vary depending on the size of the thighs, the style of your air fryer, and the wattage of your air fryer. It is recommended that you check for doneness earlier as you get to know your air fryer.
For boneless chicken thighs, preheat your air fryer to 380°F and then cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 155°F on an instant-read thermometer. Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes, and the temperature will continue to rise.
For bone-in chicken thighs, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
If you are using a toaster-oven-style air fryer, the cooking time will be closer to 18-20 minutes. If you are using a basket-style air fryer, the cooking time will be closer to 20-22 minutes.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of your air fryer. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked properly.
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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. Here are some ideas to accompany your air-fried chicken thighs:
Starchy Sides
Starch-based sides are a great option to serve with chicken thighs. Here are some options:
- Rice: A side of rice is a simple yet delicious option. You can opt for plain white rice or jazz it up with some garlic, green onions, or even make garlic fried rice using refrigerated, long-grain, cooked white rice.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic comfort food and go well with chicken. You can bake, roast, or mash them. Try oven-roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or homemade fries. If you're short on time, you can even microwave your potatoes instead of boiling them.
- Polenta: For a warm and creamy side dish, polenta is an excellent choice to pair with chicken thighs.
Vegetable Sides
Vegetables are a healthy and tasty option to accompany your chicken thighs. Here are some ideas:
- Asparagus: Oven-roasted or sautéed asparagus is a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic add a nutritious and tasty element to your meal.
- Green Beans: Sautéed green beans are a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with chicken thighs.
- Salad: A fresh salad can brighten up your meal. You can include ingredients like tomatoes, avocado, bacon, and crunchy toppings.
Other Sides
If you're looking for something a little different, here are some unique sides to try:
- Cheesy Tater Tots: These oven-baked treats are a fun and scrumptious side dish, especially for picky eaters.
- Risotto: A classic Italian rice dish with a creamy texture and cheesy flavor is always a comforting option.
- Butternut Squash: You can roast butternut squash with Brussels sprouts and beets, drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Remember, when preparing chicken thighs in an air fryer toaster oven, always ensure your chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. Enjoy experimenting with these sides and finding your perfect combination!
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How to store leftovers
Leftover chicken is a versatile treat, but it needs to be stored and reheated properly to preserve its flavour and texture.
Firstly, never put chicken into a storage container while it's still hot. Doing so can create condensation, which will make the chicken soggy. Instead, let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing it. While your chicken is cooling, prepare a clean, airtight container. You can also use a freezer bag, but be sure to remove any excess air before sealing. Place a layer of paper towels around the bottom and sides of the container to absorb any juices from the chicken, then place the chicken inside and cover with another paper towel before sealing. Refrigerate for up to four days.
If you plan to freeze your leftover chicken, it can be stored for up to three months. Wrap the container or bag in foil to prevent air bubbles or tears, which can affect the quality and safety of the chicken. Let the chicken thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
The easiest way to reheat your leftover chicken is in the oven or an air fryer, which will restore its crispy texture and juicy flavour. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with aluminium foil. Reheat for three to five minutes, checking the internal temperature regularly to ensure it reaches a minimum of 165°F for safe consumption.
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