There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked chicken thigh—juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor. As someone who loves quick, healthy meals without sacrificing taste, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They cook faster than in the oven, stay tender, and get that irresistible golden crust we all crave.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated steps—just a few pantry staples and your trusty air fryer. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a last-minute dinner, these chicken thighs come out perfectly every time. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with salads, rice, or even tacos!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: This cut is ideal for air frying because it stays juicy even at high heat. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs have a bit more fat, which prevents them from drying out.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning. It also adds a subtle richness to the chicken.
Paprika: Smoky and slightly sweet, paprika gives the chicken a beautiful color and depth of flavor. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse savory, aromatic garlic flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic.
Onion powder: Adds a mild, sweet onion taste that complements the other spices perfectly.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a little warmth.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispier exterior.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, coating all sides.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook more evenly.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing or serving. This keeps the juices locked in for maximum tenderness.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
- Adjust cooking time based on thickness—thicker thighs may need an extra minute or two.
- Add a squeeze of lemon after cooking for a bright, fresh finish.
- Experiment with spices—try adding cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning for different flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking. Frozen chicken may release excess moisture, preventing a crispy crust.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I use bone-in thighs?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 5-7 minutes and check for doneness near the bone.
Why is my chicken not crispy?
Make sure the thighs are dry before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
What sides go well with this? Try roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy air-fried chicken thighs—quick, healthy, and full of flavor!