The Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

When it comes to effortless dinners, chicken thighs are my all-time favorite. I personally prefer using thighs because the dark meat remains irresistibly tender and juicy. By opting for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as in this recipe, you’ll enjoy the juiciest chicken imaginable!

Not only are chicken thighs more flavorful than chicken breasts, but they also cook up beautifully in an air fryer. The simple seasoning mixture provides a delightful sweet and savory flavor that you’ll love.

Why I Adore This Bone-In Chicken Thighs Recipe:

• No marinating time: Just toss all the ingredients together in a bowl and pop them into the air fryer!
• Versatile protein: Chicken thighs complement a variety of dishes, making them perfect for meal prep.
• Quicker than an oven: Air frying cooks chicken faster than a conventional oven, allowing you to enjoy these juicy thighs in under 20 minutes!

Why Cook Chicken in an Air Fryer?

An air fryer can be considered a magical appliance! It functions like a mini convection oven, circulating hot air to crisp food perfectly all around while ensuring even cooking.

The air fryer is a lifesaver, especially on busy weeknights when I want to avoid preheating the oven. Plus, it usually takes less time compared to traditional baking methods. With minimal or no oil required, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to savor your meal stress-free!

Ingredients You Need

Chances are, you already have most of the ingredients to season these mouthwatering chicken thighs right in your pantry!

Note: The complete list of ingredients with specific measurements is available in the recipe card below.

• Chicken Thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for optimal crispiness and juiciness.
• Baking Powder: This helps to create that desired crispy skin.
• Ketchup: Serves as the base for the seasoning rub, adding a subtly sweet flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Enhances the flavor profile of the chicken.
• Brown Sugar: Not only adds sweetness but helps caramelize the chicken, resulting in an irresistible crispy skin.
• Seasonings: You’ll need paprika, garlic powder, and salt to bring everything together.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Air Fryer: A 6-quart or larger air fryer is recommended to accommodate 4 large chicken thighs—smaller ones will fit in a 5-quart model.
• Instant Read Thermometer: Essential for ensuring your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients before cooking.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy air fryer chicken thighs frequently grace my dinner table, thanks to their quick prep, ease of cooking, and delectable taste!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with ketchup, baking powder, tomato paste, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for about 5 minutes. Place the chicken thighs in the preheated basket in a single layer and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. The chicken is ready when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F. (Alternatively, you can cook at 400°F for about 5 to 7 minutes.)

Optional Garnish: Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or serving with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Juicy Air Fried Chicken Thighs

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch for optimal cooking.
• Spray the basket: While I usually skip this step, a light spray of olive oil or cooking spray can enhance the crispiness of the chicken if desired.
• Flip halfway through: Flipping the chicken ensures both sides have that delightful crispy skin.
• Use a meat thermometer: This tool is crucial to ensure your chicken is properly cooked. The internal temperature should read 165°F.
• Meal prep: Prepare the ingredients together ahead of time, and store them in a zip-top bag or storage container for easy access later.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Place any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating options: You can easily reheat leftovers in a baking dish in the oven at 350°F or back in the air fryer.

Freezing advice: For longer storage, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

These air-fried chicken thighs shine when paired with your choice of side dishes. Here are some of my favorites!

• Mashed Potatoes
• Steamed Vegetables
• Rice Pilaf
• Caesar Salad