Crispy skin, juicy meat, and just 5 minutes of prep – these are an easy favorite!
Air fryer chicken thighs are simply seasoned, incredibly delicious and ready in about 20 minutes!
An Easy Way to Prepare Chicken
- Crispy chicken thighs are easy to make in an air fryer, and they’re budget-friendly.
- The air fryer cooks thighs much faster than the oven and with less mess.
- Simply Season and cook – this recipe requires just a few ingredients.
No Air Fryer? Use the oven! If you don’t have an air fryer, try our favorite oven baked chicken thighs.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Chicken Thighs – This recipe uses bone-in chicken thighs with skin. You can cook chicken thighs right from frozen however, I prefer to thaw them first if time allows. See recipe notes for boneless chicken thighs.
Oil – Olive oil helps the skin crisp and the seasonings stick. You can skip the oil and spray the thighs with cooking spray if desired.
Seasonings – Use a pre-made chicken seasoning or DIY with the blend in the recipe below. Feel free to add your own favorite spices and seasonings – almost anything goes!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
- Toss chicken with oil and seasonings and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 20-22 minutes.
Air fryer chicken thighs pair well with veggies like broccoli, roasted potatoes, and a salad.
Tips for Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Preheat the air fryer for the best results.
- I recommend skin-on chicken thighs for extra crunch.
- Avoid crowding the air fryer so the food cooks evenly.
- To prevent over or undercooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For chicken, it should read 165°F in the thickest part (away from the bone).
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover air fryer chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy them cold or reheat them in the air fryer.
Freeze thighs in a zippered bag for up to 1 month and reheat them on 50% power in the air fryer, flipping them every few minutes.
More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Did you make these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs 5-6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasoning Blend (or use pre-made chicken seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
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Combine the seasoning mix in a small bowl.
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Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Place them in a medium bowl and toss with olive oil. Sprinkle both sides generously with seasoning.
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Place chicken thighs in the basket, skin-side down, and cook for 12 minutes. Flip them over and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F.
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Transfer the chicken to a place and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Course Chicken, Dinner, Entree, Main Course
Cuisine American
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My first “real meal” in an air fryer. Thank you so much for the clear easy to follow recipe. I did not use your spice mix because I don’t have those spices on hand. Your hint to start the cooking skin side down was great. The chicken turned out fabulous.
Thanks again.
So glad you enjoyed it, Pete! Have fun using your air frying.
I simplified it by using a packet of McCormick garlic herb and wine seasoning and just stirring it into the olive oil. Absolutely delicious!
That sounds delicious Tammy! I am so glad you enjoyed this recipe.
10 stars…..
Absolutely the best chicken thighs ever. Juicy, tender and DELICIOUS !!
Quickeasy and husband approved! B
So happy this recipe was a hit for you, Allison!
Your chicken recipe taste so good.
Sincerely Marj
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it, Marjorie.