These air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are juicy and packed with flavor. They’re quick to cook, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option!
Cooking them in the air fryer gives them a nice crisp without all the oil. I love pairing them with a simple salad for a tasty and easy meal that’s big on flavor!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and cook well in an air fryer. If you prefer, you can substitute with boneless skinless chicken breasts, but keep an eye on cooking time as they can dry out quicker.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick to the chicken. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can be great alternatives.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Both enhance the overall flavor. In a pinch, fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onions work too. Just use about 1 clove of garlic and 1/4 onion for each teaspoon.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, but flavor and heat will differ a bit.
Dried Oregano: This herb is fantastic for seasoning. You can swap with dried thyme or Italian seasoning if you prefer a different herb profile.
Honey: The addition of honey can balance out spices with a touch of sweetness. If you want it sugar-free, consider a sugar substitute like maple syrup or even applesauce.
How Do I Cook the Chicken for the Best Results in an Air Fryer?
The air fryer is a great way to get chicken thighs crispy without excess oil! To ensure perfect results, follow these steps:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This gives a nice environment for even cooking.
- Toss the chicken in the spice mix until fully coated. This step is important to get flavor in every bite!
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking; this helps keep it juicy.
With these simple steps, you’ll have deliciously crispy chicken thighs every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish (optional)
- Mixed salad greens and green beans (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the chicken and seasonings, and then around 18-20 minutes to cook in the air fryer. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and honey (if you’re using it). This blend will give your chicken tons of flavor!
3. Coat the Chicken Thighs:
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss them gently to ensure they’re evenly coated with all those delicious spices and oil.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overlapping, so they can cook evenly. Cook them for about 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and look nicely browned and crispy.
5. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the chicken, making it tender and tasty.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like. Serve your crispy chicken thighs alongside mixed salad greens and steamed green beans for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but you’ll need to adjust your cooking time. Make sure to thaw the chicken first, ideally overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave for a quick defrost. Once thawed, follow the recipe as stated, and you’ll have delicious results!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer to skip the honey or need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar work well to add sweetness. If you want to keep it sugar-free, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or omit it entirely for a savory flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to regain its crispiness, or use the microwave if you prefer a quicker option.
Can I Use Different Spices for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices based on your preferences. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder. You could also use Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for a different flavor twist. Just be sure to keep the overall quantities balanced!
