These air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers crispy edges and tender meat in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 20 minutes
- Uses simple pantry ingredients for seasoning
- Healthier than deep-fried options, with less oil
- Perfectly juicy and tender every time
- Great for meal prep or a last-minute meal
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Italian seasoning (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Rub well to coat evenly.
- Arrange in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest the chicken for a couple of minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat.
- Lemon Herb: Use lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- BBQ Style: Brush with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Asian-Inspired: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before cooking.
Storage/Reheating
FAQs
How long do boneless skinless chicken thighs take in the air fryer?
They typically take 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on thickness.
Do I need to marinate the chicken thighs before cooking?
No, but marinating can add extra flavor if you have time.
Can I stack the chicken thighs in the air fryer?
No, for best results, arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes and check the internal temperature.
What should I serve with air fryer chicken thighs?
They pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
How do I know when the chicken thighs are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, but the cooking time will need to be increased by about 5-7 minutes.
Do I need to flip the chicken thighs while cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even crisping and cooking.
What other seasonings can I use?
Try taco seasoning, Cajun spices, or a simple mix of salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet.
Conclusion
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are an easy, delicious, and healthy meal option. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees juicy and flavorful results every time. Try different seasonings to mix things up and enjoy a perfect bite every time!
Print
Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the outside! With just a few simple ingredients, they cook quickly and make a great weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then rub them with olive oil.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and chili powder (if using). Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat all sides.
- Cook: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Notes
- Cooking time may vary slightly based on the size of your chicken thighs and the brand of your air fryer.
- For extra crispy edges, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2 minutes.
- These chicken thighs are great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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