Air Fryer
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Boneless chicken thighs are practically foolproof in the air fryer — their extra fat keeps them juicy even if you go a minute or two past perfect, and a hot basket gives the edges a satisfying crispy char without any oven time at all.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Extra-forgiving cut that's hard to overcook
- Crispy edges without deep frying
- Ready in under 25 minutes
- Great for meal prep and quick dinners
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry and toss with olive oil in a bowl.
- Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper and cayenne, then sprinkle over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the thighs in a single layer in the basket, not overlapping.
- Air fry for 16-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest 3-4 minutes before serving.
Tips for success
- Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breast if you overshoot slightly on cook time, thanks to their higher fat content.
- Cutting thighs to a roughly even thickness helps them cook more uniformly.
- Don't crowd the basket — cook in two batches if needed for the crispiest results.
- These reheat well, making them a great meal-prep option for salads, bowls or wraps.
Frequently asked questions
How long do boneless chicken thighs take in the air fryer?
About 16-18 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Do I need to flip chicken thighs in the air fryer?
Flipping halfway through helps both sides brown evenly, though most air fryers will still cook them through without it.
Can I use bone-in thighs instead?
Yes, but they'll need about 22-25 minutes total since bone-in thighs are thicker and cook more slowly.
What can I serve with air fryer chicken thighs?
Rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad all work well as a side.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 286 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 1g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Sugar | 0g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
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