Quick and Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
You will make these air fryer chicken thighs on frequent repeat! They’re crispy on the outside, exceptionally juicy, and the seasoning is on point.
Air fryer chicken thighs are a game-changer—juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and both quick and easy so they’re ideal for weeknight dinners. The magical air fryer strikes again! (I also love it for Air Fryer Chicken Wings and Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken.)
Although chicken breasts are a go-to for weeknight dinners, there’s a lot to be said for chicken thighs—and if you’re just starting to add them to your dinner routine, this air fryer recipe is an easy way to make them. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs stay moist and tender even if you totally forget they’re in the air fryer—they’re almost impossible to overcook.
The seasoning I use in these air fryer chicken thighs is sweet, smoky, savory, and a little bit spicy. It’s a great universal seasoning blend that makes it go with everything from Balsamic Brussels Sprouts to Easy Macaroni and Cheese. This chicken thigh recipe is a multitasker like that!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for this recipe. For the full measurements, scroll down to the recipe card.
- Brown Sugar – Dark or light brown sugar both work.
- Seasonings – Onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cayenne, plus kosher salt and black pepper.
- Bone-In Chicken Thighs – Bone in, skin on chicken thighs will give you the juiciest results with the crispiest skin.
- Olive Oil – This helps the chicken get a golden, crispy exterior. Delicious!
How to Cook Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer
Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full printable instructions.
- Prepare. Whisk the seasoning blend in a small bowl and pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Preheat the air fryer to 415ºF.
- Season the chicken. Coat the chicken with the olive oil, then add the seasoning.
- Air fry. Arrange the chicken with the skin side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for 4 to 5 minutes more before serving.
Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These simple tips will help you make perfect chicken thighs in the air fryer!
- Pat them dry first. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures crispier skin.
- Don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket. The chicken should have space between each piece to allow for air circulation and even cooking. Cook the chicken thighs in batches if you need to.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165˚F.
Seasoning Variations
You can switch up this recipe by using a different seasoning. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Cajun Seasoning
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Poultry Seasoning
- Easy Homemade Ranch Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftover air fryer chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To restore some of their crispiness, it’s best to reheat them in the air fryer rather than the microwave. Preheat your air fryer to 375˚F and reheat the chicken until it’s warmed through.
If you’d like to freeze leftover chicken thighs, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Rice Pilaf
- Boursin Cheese Pasta
- Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower
- Sautéed Mushrooms
- Garlic Parmesan Baked Asparagus
- Brussels Sprout Salad
More Chicken Thigh Recipes
- Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Sweet and Spicy Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Basil Pesto Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Figs
- Braised Chicken Thighs with Garlic and White Wine
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Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Onion Powder
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder
- ½ tablespoon Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cayenne
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the seasoning and set aside.
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and arrange on a plate or platter.
- Coat the chicken with the olive oil and then season the chicken on both sides.
- Preheat the air fryer to 415˚F.
- Arrange the chicken, skin side down, in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
- Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes. flip the chicken and air fry for an additional 4-5 minutes. Check for doneness with an instant read thermometer. If your pieces are larger, you may need to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite sauce for dipping!