This Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs recipe is a quick and easy solution to your dinner time needs. They are coated in a homemade spice rub and air fried to golden brown perfection in about 12 minutes!
Love air fryer chicken recipes? Try my Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bites next!
Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes? Do you want to try something new that is both healthy and delicious that the whole family will devour? Look no further than air fryer boneless chicken thighs!
Air frying is a game changer! Hot air produces crispy and flavorful chicken without all the added oil and calories of traditional frying.
Boneless chicken thighs are a great choice for the air fryer, as they cook quickly and evenly. Plus, they are a more affordable and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts.
Air frying has become my go to when I need something quick and easy. Even cooking a whole chicken, like this recipe made in the Cosori Air Fryer, is a breeze.
The dry rub is so flavorful, but you can make any adjustments to suit your taste. You can even try some of my other spice mixes like this
Louisiana spice mix that's inspired by Cajun cooking.
So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a healthier and tastier version of your favorite chicken dish!
Why This Recipe Works
- Easy recipe: This recipe is a quick meal to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time.
- Healthy option: Air fryer boneless chicken thighs are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture and delicious flavor without all the added fat and calories. It's also low carb and full of protein.
- Versatile: This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. You can season the chicken with your favorite spices or marinades, or even add some veggies to the air fryer basket for a complete meal.
- Minimal Cleanup: One of the best things about this recipe is that it requires minimal cleanup. Since you're using an air fryer, there's no need for oil or grease, and the basket can be easily washed in the dishwasher.
- Meal prepping: this recipe is one of the easiest ways to get a head start to your weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
Scroll to the bottom of the post for precise amounts and printable recipe card.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh squeeze of lime or lemon juice (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil: olive oil spray, avocado oil spray, or canola are my favorites (optional).
Instructions
STEP ONE: Make the dry rub by combining all the spice ingredients to a small bowl.
STEP TWO: Prep chicken thighs by removing any large pieces of fat. If you bought the meat with the skin on, you can remove it or leave it on.
STEP THREE: Spray chicken with some cooking spray if using, or use a little bit of oil. Rub spice mixture all over the chicken pieces. Be sure the spice rub is evenly spread over the chicken.
STEP FOUR: Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket with the smooth side down.
STEP FIVE: Air fry at 380 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. You can flip the meat over at the halfway point, but it's not necessary.
I use the Cosori Pro Gen 5.8 QT for all my air fryer recipes. It's perfect for 4 to 6 people. I also use these Cosori Air Fryer Accessories and these Air Fryer Liners for easier clean up.
Tips
Pre-heating the air fryer is optional.
Cook time may depend on the size and thickness of your chicken thighs. Be sure to cook meat until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F. The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer.
Place chicken thighs in the air fryer in a single layer with a little space between them. This will allow the air to circulate around the chicken and help it cook evenly. If you overcrowd the basket, the chicken may not cook through properly.
Cayenne pepper added to the rub will add a spicy kick.
Yes, but they will take a little bit longer to cook than boneless thighs. Dark meat has more fat, which means they are extra juicy, but also need a little more time to cook through.
What side dish goes well with Air Fryer chicken thighs?
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes (Crockpot Version)
- Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes
- Baked Parmesan Potato Bites
- Air Fryer Steak Fries
Storing
You've just made a delicious batch of air fryer boneless chicken thighs, but you couldn't finish them all. Don't worry, you can store them for later!
To store leftover chicken thighs, place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of how long it's been in the fridge or freezer.
Refrigerated thighs last 3 or 4 days. If you plan on freezing the chicken thighs, they can last up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Yes, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes, or you can use the microwave. If you're using the microwave, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals until it's heated through.
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Cooking spray or oil optional
- Squeeze of fresh lime optional
Instructions
- Make the dry rub by combining garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Prep chicken thighs by removing any large pieces of fat. If you bought the meat with the skin on, you can remove it or leave it on.
- If desired, spray chicken with some cooking spray or use a little bit of oil. Rub spice mixture all over the chicken pieces. Be sure the spice rub is evenly spread over the chicken on both sides.
- Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket with the smooth side down.
- Air fry at 380 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. You can flip the meat over at the halfway point, but it's not necessary.
Notes
- Pre-heating the air fryer is optional.
- Cook time may depend on the size and thickness of your chicken thighs. Be sure to cook meat until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F. the best way to check is to use a meat thermometer.
- Place chicken thighs in the air fryer in a single layer with a little space between them. This will allow the air to circulate around the chicken and help it cook evenly. If you overcrowd the basket, the chicken may not cook through properly.
- Cayenne pepper added to the rub will add a spicy kick.
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