Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Looking for a quick and easy way to spice things up in the kitchen? Look no further! These Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs are the perfect solution for a delicious, juicy meal that comes together in no time. Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and flavorful. With a blend of tangy Greek yogurt, zesty lemon, and Cajun seasoning, these chicken thighs will become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Top Reasons to Make Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks the chicken thighs in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The marinade of Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, reducing calories without sacrificing taste.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in the air fryer means minimal pots and pans to wash afterward.
- Versatile: Serve these thighs with a variety of sides, from salads to roasted vegetables, making them a flexible choice for any meal.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tablespoon McCormick Gourmet Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs, such as herbs de Provence
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat (36 ounces total)
Hardware & Gadgets
- Air Fryer: The star of the show! Ensure it’s large enough to hold all the chicken thighs in a single layer.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Chef’s Knife: Perfect for mincing garlic and trimming chicken thighs.
- Spatula: To flip the chicken if needed during cooking.
Cook Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs Like This
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the nonfat Greek yogurt, minced garlic, juice from half of the lemon, Cajun seasoning (reserving half for later), paprika, and dried herbs. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately and helps achieve that crispy texture.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Thighs
Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the refrigerator. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top for added brightness and flavor. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your meal!
Dietary Customizations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as Italian seasoning or fresh basil for a new flavor profile.
Little Things that Matter
For the best results, be sure to trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs before marinating. This not only helps with flavor but also ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. Additionally, letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.
- Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and tenderizes the chicken.
- Check the doneness with a meat thermometer for the safest results.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep them crispy.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs Q&A
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may require a slightly shorter cooking time to avoid drying out. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be fully cooked.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator while marinating.
Cook This Next
- Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
- Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken
- Healthy Baked Chicken Breast
Before You Go
Now that you have the recipe for Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs, it’s time to get cooking! With its delicious flavors and quick preparation, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to experiment with the marinade and serve it with your favorite sides. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the nonfat Greek yogurt, minced garlic, juice from half of the lemon, Cajun seasoning (reserving half for later), paprika, and dried herbs. Mix until well combined.
- Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the refrigerator. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the top and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it brightens the dish and tenderizes the chicken.
- Check the doneness with a meat thermometer for the safest results.
