If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner, these air fryer boneless chicken thighs are a game changer. They are seasoned to perfection with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of honey, then air fried to crispy, juicy perfection. Whether you’re a fan of crispy skin or tender, flavorful chicken, this recipe will deliver. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make the best air fryer boneless chicken thighs, perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With only a few simple ingredients and just 15 minutes in the air fryer, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying, making this a healthier way to enjoy crispy chicken.
- Versatile: These boneless chicken thighs can be served with a variety of sides or used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili crunch gives these chicken thighs a mouth-watering flavor.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since everything is cooked in the air fryer, cleanup is quick and easy!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients
- Substitutions
- How to Make Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Cooking Time and Temperature for Boneless Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
- Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Serving Suggestions
- Storage and Leftovers
- Expert Tips
- Variations
- FAQ
- Pairings and Related Recipes
- Equipment and Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili crunch
- 2 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions for garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Full recipe quantities in recipe card below
Substitutions
Here are a few easy substitutions you can make in this recipe:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Adjust the cooking time to about 12-14 minutes.
- Soy Sauce: If you’re avoiding soy, use coconut aminos or tamari for a similar flavor.
- Honey: You can substitute maple syrup or agave for honey if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
- Chili Crunch: Not a fan of spice? Omit the chili crunch or use regular chili flakes for a milder kick.
How to Make Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Making boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer is a simple process, and you’ll love how quick and easy it is. Follow these steps for the best results.
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Step 2: Make the Seasoning Marinade
In a large bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili crunch, soy sauce, and honey and chili crunch if using. Mix everything well.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated.
If you have time, let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes. While not required, this step helps enhance the flavor.
Step 4: Cooking the Chicken Thighs
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
Air fry the chicken thighs for 15 minutes at 380°F, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Cooking Time and Temperature for Boneless Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
One of the most common questions is, “How long do you cook boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer?” The answer is 15 minutes at 380°F (193°C), ensuring juicy, tender chicken every time. If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can air fry them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
To achieve the perfect crispy air fryer boneless chicken thighs, here are a few expert tips:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This removes excess moisture, allowing the thighs to crisp up better in the air fryer.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate properly, crisping up the chicken evenly.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer boneless chicken thighs are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Serve with air fryer roasted vegetables for a healthy meal.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or garlic rice for a more filling option.
- These chicken thighs also make a great addition to salads or wraps for a quick lunch.
Storage and Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store: Place any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To keep them crispy, reheat the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes.
Expert Tips
Here are a few additional tips to ensure your air fryer boneless chicken thighs turn out perfect every time:
- • Marinating: While optional, letting the chicken thighs marinate for 30 minutes enhances the flavor.
- • Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
- Rest Chicken: Let chicken thighs sit 5-7 minutes before cutting to ensure juicy chicken thighs.
Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try:
- Spicy: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicier kick.
- BBQ: Brush the chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of air frying for a smoky flavor.
- Lemon Pepper: Swap the smoked paprika for lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty variation.
FAQ
Cook boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer for 15 minutes at 380°F, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Yes, you can cook boneless chicken thighs in an air fryer, and they come out crispy and juicy every time.
Cook boneless chicken thighs at 380°F to achieve the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Yes, you can cook frozen boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer. Increase the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes and make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Yes, flipping the chicken thighs halfway through cooking helps ensure even cooking and crispiness on both sides.
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor even more, but it’s not required. You can marinate for just 30 minutes if you’re short on time.
The chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Air fryer chicken thighs pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or even in a salad or wrap for a light meal.
Pairings and Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious air fryer recipes? Check out these options:
Air Fryer Parmesan Potatoes
Air Fryer Roasted Zucchini
Easy Air Fryer Green Beans
Equipment and Kitchen Essentials
Hey there everybody. I always like to list the equipment I used to make a recipe. Sometimes I include some kitchen essentials that I use every day that I like. I do make a small commission on these items at absolutely NO COST to you. I appreciate all the support.
Instant Pot Vortex Air Fryer Stainless Steel 6 Quart
Ninja Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer
Air Fryer Liners – 8.5 Inches, 100pcs
365 by Whole Foods Market, Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Organic
Momofuku Chili Crunch
Oil Sprayer for Cooking
Simply Organic Smoked Paprika
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Garlic Powder
Amazon Brand – Happy Belly Clover Honey
Matt
I love making boneless chicken thighs in the air fryer. They’re quick and easy high on flavor and get a little crispy edges. These are so good.
Karen
these were GREAT! so tasty and had a nice crisp on them but were still juicy
Matt
Thank you!! I really appreciate the nice review. Be on the lookout for new recipes. I am trying to put out more things more often.
Happy Holidays
Matty.