Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
If you’re on the lookout for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With the right seasonings and a few simple steps, you’ll have tender chicken thighs that are crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– Quick cooking time: The air fryer cooks chicken thighs in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
– Crispy skin: You’ll get that irresistible crispy texture without deep frying.
– Flavor-packed: The combination of vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ seasoning brings out the best flavors.
– Versatile: Serve these thighs with your favorite sides or use them in salads, tacos, or wraps.
What’s in the Bowl
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, these thighs provide the perfect base for any meal.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – Helps to crisp up the skin and adds moisture.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory depth of flavor.
- BBQ Seasoning – Suggested: Dan’O or McCormick Grill Mates Sweet & Smoky Rub for that perfect smoky flavor.
Appliances & Accessories
- Air Fryer – Essential for achieving that crispy finish without deep frying.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature.
- Mixing bowl – For combining your marinade ingredients.
- Tongs – Helpful for flipping the chicken thighs during cooking.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ seasoning. Stir until well blended.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and thoroughly coat them with the marinade. Make sure every inch of the chicken is covered for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that crispy texture.
Step 5: Arrange the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken
Cook the chicken thighs for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Low-carb: Pair with non-starchy vegetables for a low-carb meal.
- Gluten-free: Ensure your BBQ seasoning is gluten-free.
- Low-calorie: Use less oil and seasoning to reduce calorie content.
- Paleo-friendly: Choose a BBQ seasoning that aligns with paleo guidelines.
Cook’s Commentary
The beauty of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs is in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different marinades and seasonings. If you’re looking for a kick, add a bit of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your BBQ seasoning. For a citrusy twist, try marinating the chicken with lemon juice or orange zest. The air fryer is forgiving, making it a great tool for both novice and seasoned cooks alike.
Storage Pro Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken thighs back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly less, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs pair beautifully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also shred the chicken and use it in tacos or sandwiches.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Desserts to Finish
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – The classic favorite that never disappoints.
- Creamy Cheesecake – A rich and smooth dessert to end your meal on a high note.
- Warm Apple Crisp – Perfect for fall, this dessert is comforting and delicious.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing way to cleanse your palate.
Final Bite
The magic of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs lies not only in their flavor but also in their simplicity. In just a short time, you can create a meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So fire up that air fryer, indulge in the crispy goodness, and enjoy every bite!
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, Worcestershire sauce, and BBQ seasoning. Stir until well blended.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and thoroughly coat them with the marinade. Make sure every inch of the chicken is covered for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that crispy texture.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation.
- Cook the chicken thighs for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Notes
- Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
- To reheat, place the chicken thighs back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
