Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and juicy meal with minimal effort. Using an air fryer ensures that the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and tender interior. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a quick, yet satisfying dinner without the need for deep frying or excessive oil.
Ingredients and Preparation
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients: 5 – 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs with excess fat trimmed off, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 – 2 lemons for serving, and fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving.
Properly trimming and preparing the chicken thighs is essential for achieving the best results. Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This step ensures that the seasoning adheres well and helps create a crispy texture during cooking.
Seasoning the Chicken
The right blend of spices can elevate your chicken thighs to new heights. In this recipe, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper are used to create a flavorful seasoning mix. Combining these spices in a small bowl allows for even distribution and ensures that each bite is packed with taste.
To evenly coat the chicken thighs, rub the seasoning mix onto both sides, pressing gently with your fingers. This technique helps the spices adhere better and infuses the chicken with rich flavors. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the chicken for the best results.
Cooking Instructions
Preheating your air fryer to 380°F is the first step in achieving perfectly cooked chicken thighs. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with non-stick olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the chicken thighs smooth side down in the basket. It is crucial to ensure that the thighs do not overlap to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then use tongs to flip each thigh and continue air frying for an additional 4 – 5 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Recipe Tips
- Tricks for getting crispy chicken thighs: Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- How to avoid common mistakes: Ensure the air fryer is preheated properly and check the internal temperature to avoid undercooking.
- Adjusting the recipe for different air fryer models: Cooking times may vary, so monitor the chicken closely and adjust the time as needed.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, add a side of garlic bread or a simple rice pilaf.
Beverage pairings can enhance the dining experience. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer complements the flavors of the chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?: Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness.
- Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?: Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight can add extra flavor. Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
This Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs recipe offers a simple and delicious way to enjoy a quick meal with minimal effort. The combination of spices and the convenience of the air fryer makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Give it a try and savor the flavorful, juicy chicken thighs. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family for them to enjoy as well!
Ingredients
- 5 – 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, excess fat trimmed off
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 – 2 lemons, for serving
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and lightly coat the basket with non-stick olive oil spray.
While the air fryer heats, pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Rub the seasoning mix evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs, pressing gently with your fingers to ensure it adheres well.
Place the chicken thighs smooth side down in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
Cook in the air fryer for 10 minutes. Then, use tongs to flip each thigh and continue air frying for another 4 – 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is fully cooked.
Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy your flavorful and juicy chicken thighs!
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 – 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, excess fat trimmed off
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 – 2 lemons for serving
- Fresh parsley finely chopped, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and lightly coat the basket with non-stick olive oil spray.
- While the air fryer heats, pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the seasoning mix evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs, pressing gently with your fingers to ensure it adheres well.
- Place the chicken thighs smooth side down in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
- Cook in the air fryer for 10 minutes. Then, use tongs to flip each thigh and continue air frying for another 4 – 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy your flavorful and juicy chicken thighs!
Notes
- If you don’t have avocado or olive oil spray, brush the chicken thighs with a bit of olive oil and use parchment paper in your air fryer basket as a substitute.
- To thaw frozen chicken thighs, refrigerate them for 24 hours or use the microwave’s defrost setting. For a quicker method, place the thighs in a leak-proof bag and submerge them in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed to avoid cross-contamination.
- Store leftover air fryer chicken thighs in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, use the microwave for 45 – 90 seconds until warm, or reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 – 6 minutes until warmed through.