These crispy air fryer boneless chicken thighs are super easy to make and packed with flavor! With a golden, crunchy outside and juicy inside, they are a definite crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for busy weeknights, I love how quick they cook! Just season, pop them in the air fryer, and dinner’s ready. Plus, who doesn’t love less mess? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe due to their flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use bone-in thighs, but cooking time may vary. For a twist, try chicken breast, though it may not be as tender.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to achieve that lovely crispiness. You can substitute it with canola or avocado oil if you want a neutral flavor or use melted butter for a richer taste.
Spices: The garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper create a flavorful blend. If you like heat, cayenne pepper adds a kick! Feel free to swap the smoked paprika for regular paprika if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Oregano/Italian Seasoning: This adds depth to the chicken. If you don’t have dried oregano, Italian seasoning works well. You can also use fresh herbs if desired; just adjust the amount since they’re more potent fresh.
How Do I Get the Chicken Thighs Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Achieving crispy chicken thighs is all about moisture and heat! Start by patting the chicken dry; this helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer. Coating them in oil and spices creates a flavorful crust as they cook, enhancing the crunchiness.
- Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange the thighs in a single layer. Overcrowding will trap steam and prevent crisping.
- Cooking them at 400°F (200°C) allows for a golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness.
- Let the thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This step helps retain juices and enhances the overall texture.
Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
- Cooking spray or additional oil for the air fryer basket
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to cook. Overall, you can expect to spend about 25 minutes from start to finish, including resting time. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Dry and Season the Chicken:
Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is crucial for achieving that crispy skin. Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the seasoning blend.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your chicken starts cooking right away, leading to a crispy exterior.
3. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
While the air fryer is preheating, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Once preheated, arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook the chicken evenly. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip each thigh over. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see a beautiful golden color on the outside.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps keep the juices locked in. Finally, serve your crispy air fryer boneless chicken thighs hot, alongside your favorite sides or dipping sauce!
Enjoy your delicious meal! 🤤
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! However, they may dry out more easily than thighs. To keep them juicy, consider marinating them for a bit before cooking or reducing the cooking time slightly.
What if My Chicken Thighs Are Frozen?
It’s best to thaw chicken thighs before cooking for even results. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or use the quick method: place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just ensure they’re cooled completely before freezing. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Add More Spices or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spice blend to your taste. You can add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the overall salt content in each addition.
