Save
This quick Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe makes weeknight cooking absolutely stress free and delivers juicy perfectly seasoned chicken every time. With only a handful of pantry staples you can have a satisfying family dinner on the table in just twenty minutes from start to finish.
My family loves this recipe after long workdays and I first made it on a whim during a hectic back to school week. It has been on repeat ever since because nobody complains when these chicken thighs hit the table.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: A tender juicy cut that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully Look for fresh pinkish meat without excess fat
- Olive oil: Locks in moisture and gives the seasoning something to stick to Use extra virgin if possible for best taste
- Brown sugar: Adds both sweetness and helps caramelize the edges Choose dark brown sugar for richer flavor
- Soy sauce low sodium: Provides a subtle savory background and seasons the meat well Read labels and go for low sodium when you can
- Smoked paprika: Delivers a hint of warmth and depth Go for a bright red powder for best quality
- Garlic powder: Infuses everything with that lovely mellow garlic touch Check for clump free fine powder
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors forward Use kosher salt if available for better coverage
- Ground black pepper: Gives the thighs gentle heat and rounds out the mix Freshly ground is best
Step by Step Instructions
- Make the seasoning mixture:
- Combine olive oil brown sugar soy sauce garlic powder smoked paprika salt and pepper in a medium bowl with a spoon until fully blended and glossy
- Coat the chicken thighs:
- Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl Turn each piece so every side gets well covered with seasoning and rub it in for a minute or two for better flavor absorption
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set your air fryer to three hundred eighty degrees Fahrenheit Allow it to come fully to temperature which usually takes three to four minutes
- Arrange the chicken:
- Place the thighs in a single layer smooth side down in the air fryer basket Make sure there is room between each piece for proper air circulation
- Cook and flip:
- Air fry for fifteen minutes total Flip each piece halfway through after about seven minutes so each side gets that lovely golden crispness Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Rest and serve:
- Once finished let the chicken rest a minute or two so juices redistribute Slice or serve whole alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal
Save
Boneless skinless chicken thighs are my secret for keeping weeknight meals moist and flavorful without much effort I remember making these for my dad when he was visiting and he insisted on getting the recipe for his own air fryer
Storage Tips
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator where it will keep nicely for up to three days If you want to keep it longer you can freeze cooked thighs for up to two months Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Skinless boneless chicken breasts work here too just check for doneness a bit earlier For a deeper flavor try a teaspoon of chili powder instead of smoked paprika If you are out of brown sugar a drizzle of honey or maple syrup will also help caramelize the meat
Serving Suggestions
These chicken thighs go beautifully with a scoop of steamed rice roasted vegetables or a crisp salad I sometimes wrap them in tortillas with fresh greens and a bit of yogurt sauce for quick lunches or tuck into warm pita bread with pickled onions
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep chicken thighs juicy in the air fryer?
Marinate the chicken in oil and seasonings, arrange in a single layer, and avoid overcooking to lock in moisture.
- → Should I flip the chicken thighs during cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures the chicken cooks evenly and both sides get crispy and golden.
- → What is the best temperature for cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer?
Set your air fryer to 380°F. This cooks the chicken through while achieving good browning.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
Check for an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe, juicy results.
- → Can I use bone-in thighs instead of boneless?
Bone-in thighs can be used, but increase cooking time and check for doneness near the bone.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for crispiness.