Ella Walter
Air fryers are a convenient way to cook juicy chicken thighs with crispy skin. The skin protects the meat during the cooking process, locking in moisture, and the bone adds extra flavour. Chicken thighs are a healthy option, packed with protein and other nutrients, and they can be made even healthier in an air fryer, which uses little to no oil. They can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of the air fryer, but they typically take around 20 to 30 minutes to cook.
Characteristics and Values Table for Air Fryer Skin-On Chicken Thighs
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Cook Temperature | 375-400°F |
| Skin Side | Up or down |
| Flip | Halfway through |
| Internal Temperature | 165°F |
| Rest Time | 5 minutes |
| Seasonings | Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning |
| Oil | Avocado oil cooking spray, olive oil, or other cooking oil |
| Sides | Salads, roasted butternut squash, shredded Brussels sprouts, roasted green beans, mushroom rice, mac and cheese, cauliflower mac and cheese, keto green beans with bacon, broccoli salad |
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What You'll Learn
How to get the skin crispy
To get the skin of your chicken thighs crispy, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This will help to remove any excess moisture and ensure a crispy skin. You can also rub the chicken with oil, which will help the seasonings stick and create a crispy skin.
Next, season the chicken. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, and dried herbs. Some recipes also recommend adding cornstarch to the seasoning mix, as this will help the skin get crispy. You can also add baking powder to the mix, as this will raise the pH level, breaking down bonds and resulting in extra crispy skin.
Once seasoned, place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down. It is important to ensure the chicken is not overcrowded, as this will cause it to cook unevenly. If needed, cook the thighs in batches. Preheat the air fryer to 380-400°F for 5 minutes.
Now, it's time to air fry! For chicken thighs, this will usually take around 12 minutes on each side, but cooking times may vary depending on the size of your chicken and the wattage of your air fryer. For the crispiest skin, you may need to increase the cooking time by 3-4 minute intervals until your desired crispness is achieved.
Finally, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. If not, continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until it reaches this temperature.
Your chicken thighs are now ready to serve, with crispy skin and juicy meat!
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Choosing the right oil
When it comes to choosing the right oil for cooking skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the oil should have a high smoke point, as air fryers cook at relatively high temperatures. Secondly, you'll want an oil that complements the flavour of the chicken without being too overpowering. And finally, the oil should help to create a crispy skin and juicy meat.
Oils with a high smoke point include avocado oil, which is a healthy option with a neutral flavour, making it a good choice if you want the flavour of the chicken and seasonings to shine through. Olive oil is another option, offering a more robust flavour that can enhance the taste of the dish. If you're looking for a healthy alternative to traditional oils, avocado oil could be a good choice. It has a high smoke point and is flavourful, making it a versatile option for various dishes.
For a crispy skin, it's essential to pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel before adding the oil and seasonings. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring the skin crisps up nicely in the air fryer. When choosing an oil, go for one that will coat the chicken evenly and help the seasonings stick. You only need a small amount of oil, as a little goes a long way in an air fryer.
Some people also recommend using cooking spray instead of oil. This can be a good option if you want to control the amount of oil used and ensure even coverage. Simply spray the chicken thighs before adding the seasonings, or use it to pre-heat the air fryer for an extra crispy finish.
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Using bone-in vs boneless chicken thighs
When it comes to cooking skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer, you have the option of using either bone-in or boneless meat. Each choice has its own set of advantages and considerations.
Using bone-in chicken thighs provides better protection against drying out the meat during the cooking process. The bone helps to lock in moisture, making it harder to overcook the chicken. This option is ideal if you're aiming for crispier skin, as it takes longer to cook than boneless chicken. The presence of the bone also adds extra flavour to the meat.
On the other hand, boneless chicken thighs offer a quicker cooking time due to the absence of the bone. This option is convenient if you're short on time or prefer a faster cooking process. Boneless thighs are just as tasty and juicy as their bone-in counterparts, and they work well for busy weeknights or meal prep.
When preparing skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer, it's important to note that the cooking time and temperature settings may vary depending on whether you're using bone-in or boneless meat. Bone-in chicken thighs typically require a higher temperature and a longer cooking time to ensure even cooking and achieve the desired crispiness. Boneless thighs, on the other hand, cook at a slightly lower temperature and for a shorter duration.
Regardless of your choice, both bone-in and boneless skin-on chicken thighs can be seasoned and spiced to your preference. A simple spice rub or marinade can elevate the flavour of the dish. Additionally, it's always recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's cooked safely and to your desired doneness.
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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 elevate your chicken thigh meal:
Salads
A fresh and nutritious option, salads can be a great complement to chicken thighs. You can go for a simple green salad or get creative with ingredients like quinoa, tomatoes, or roasted veggies such as butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, or beets.
Starchy Sides
Starchy sides like potatoes, rice, or polenta can be a comforting and filling addition to your meal. Try garlic fried rice, mashed potatoes, or even potato-based dishes like cheesy tater tots or potato skins.
Vegetables
Asparagus, broccoli, and green beans are all great choices to serve alongside chicken thighs. You can roast or air-fry them for a healthy and tasty side dish.
Hearty Dishes
If you're looking for something more substantial, you can serve chicken thighs with dishes like cauliflower mac and cheese, bacon and avocado, or a warm and creamy risotto.
Breads
Freshly baked bread, such as milk bread rolls, can be a great addition to soak up any juices or sauces from the chicken.
Ethnic Flavors
For an ethnic twist, try serving chicken thighs with Indian-inspired jeera rice, black olives, feta, and naan, topped with a garlic-onion aioli. You can also use rendered fat from the chicken to make schmaltzy rice or potatoes.
With these ideas, you can create a delicious and well-rounded meal to enjoy with your juicy air-fried chicken thighs!
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How long to cook for
The cooking time for skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer varies depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of the air fryer. Most sources recommend cooking skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer for around 20 to 25 minutes, but some sources suggest cooking for as little as 12 minutes or as long as 30 minutes.
One source recommends cooking skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer for 12 minutes on each side at 400°F until they are golden and crispy, and cooked through in the center. Another source recommends cooking skin-on chicken thighs at 380°F for a total of 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. A third source recommends cooking skin-on chicken thighs in an air fryer for a total of 20 minutes, flipping them once after 12 minutes and then again after 12-14 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of the air fryer. Larger chicken thighs may require a longer cooking time, while smaller chicken thighs may be ready in less time. It is always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken thighs. The internal temperature of the chicken thighs should reach 165°F to ensure they are cooked through.
Additionally, some sources recommend pre-heating the air fryer before cooking skin-on chicken thighs. This can be done by pre-heating the air fryer to the desired temperature for a few minutes before adding the chicken thighs.
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Frequently asked questions
It takes between 12 and 25 minutes to cook chicken thighs with the skin on in an air fryer. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken thighs and the wattage of the air fryer.
Preheat your air fryer to between 375F and 400F.
To get the skin on your chicken thighs crispy, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before cooking. You can also use a small amount of cooking oil and cornstarch to help the skin crisp up.
