Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, making it easier than ever to prepare crispy, juicy chicken thighs with minimal oil. But the key question is: how long to cook chicken thighs in air fryer for the best results? Whether you prefer bone-in, boneless, or skin-on thighs, this guide covers everything you need to know!
Why Cook Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?
Chicken thighs are a favorite because they stay moist and flavorful, even when cooked at high heat. Using an air fryer for chicken thighs ensures:
✔ Crispy skin without deep frying
✔ Juicy, tender meat inside
✔ Faster cooking than an oven
✔ Healthier meals with less oil
How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer? (Time & Temp Chart)
The exact air fryer chicken thighs time depends on size and type. Here’s a quick guide:
| Type of Chicken Thigh | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in, Skin-on | 375°F (190°C) | 20-25 mins |
| Boneless, Skinless | 380°F (193°C) | 15-18 mins |
| Frozen Chicken Thighs | 360°F (182°C) | 22-28 mins |
Pro Tip: Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C for safe consumption).
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
1. Prep the Chicken Thighs
- Pat dry with paper towels (for extra crispiness).
- Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, etc.).
- Lightly coat with oil (optional for extra crunch).
2. Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
- Place thighs in a single layer (no overcrowding!).
- For bone-in thighs, cook skin-side down first (flip halfway).
4. Cook at the Right Time & Temp
- Bone-in thighs: 375°F for 20-25 mins (flip at 12 mins).
- Boneless thighs: 380°F for 15-18 mins (shake halfway).
5. Check Doneness & Rest
- Use a meat thermometer (165°F internal temp).
- Let rest 3-5 mins before serving for juicier meat.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe (Crispy & Flavorful!)
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
- Season thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Lightly brush with oil (if using).
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins (flip halfway).
- Check temp (165°F), then rest and serve!
FAQs: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
1. Do I Need to Flip Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer?
✅ Yes! Flipping ensures even crispiness, especially for bone-in thighs.
2. Can I Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer?
✅ Yes! Cook at 360°F for 22-28 mins (no thawing needed).
3. Why Are My Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Not Crispy?
- Too much moisture (pat dry before cooking).
- Overcrowding (cook in batches if needed).
- Not enough oil (a light spray helps crispiness).
4. What’s the Best Seasoning for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
Try:
- Lemon pepper
- Cajun spice
- BBQ rub
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
🔥 For extra crispy skin: Pat dry and lightly coat with oil.
🔥 Even cooking: Flip halfway through.
🔥 Avoid sticking: Use parchment paper or a light oil spray.
🔥 Juicy meat: Let thighs rest before cutting.
Final Thoughts: Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Every Time!
Now that you know how long to cook chicken thighs in air fryer, you can enjoy crispy, juicy chicken in under 30 minutes! Whether you prefer bone-in, boneless, or skin-on, the air fryer delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.