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Home » Air Fryer Recipes » Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs  

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs  

Last Updated on May 7, 2022 by Bintu. Leave a Comment

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Boneless skinless chicken thighs are one of the easiest air fryer chicken recipes you will ever make. The simple marinade creates flavorful boneless chicken thighs that cook in the air fryer in less than 30 minutes. Make this air fryer boneless chicken for dinner tonight.

Suitable for gluten free, low carb, Keto, Paleo, and Whole30 diets. Post includes Weight Watchers points.

top down view of the completed air fryer boneless chicken thighs inside the air fryer basketd

These air fryer boneless chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned with a flavorful marinade and cooked in the air fryer until they have incredibly crispy skin.

The advantage of cooking boneless chicken thighs over chicken breasts is that air frying makes them crispy and juicer than other chicken recipes. The result is healthy air fryer boneless chicken thighs that are lower in saturated fat but still incredibly delicious.   

Air fryer chicken thighs are so versatile and this is one of my favorite air fryer recipes. Air fryer boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in chicken thighs or chicken drumsticks. Pair the air fryer skinless thighs with healthy sides like steamed veggies or a salad for a light and healthy meal.

You can also serve them with mashed potatoes and a quick pan gravy if you want something more comforting. No matter how you serve air fryer boneless chicken thighs, they will be a hit with your whole family.

If you like this you might also like Bone in Air Fryer Chicken Thighs.

close up view of the air fryer chicken thighs inside the air fryer basket

If you need healthy chicken recipes that taste great, you will love these easy chicken thighs. Boneless skinless thighs have zero trans fat, are juicier than chicken breast and cooking in the air fryer lets you eliminate excess oil.

And the chicken thighs prep time is fast because marinating for long periods is not required, and they cook faster than bone in chicken thighs. Folks, you will love this air fryer recipe!

air fryer boneless chicken thighs served on a white plate with extra cup of marinade

Why Make This Recipe

  • Budget-Friendly – Chicken thighs are inexpensive, and as one of the most affordable cuts of chicken, they are perfect for families on a budget.
  • Easy – It’s so easy to air fry chicken. The simple marinade uses ingredients you already have in your pantry, so it only takes a few minutes to make boneless chicken thighs in air fryer. This air fryer recipe is simple yet delicious. 
  • Crispy – If you love chicken thighs, you will love how crispy you can make these boneless skinless chicken thighs in air fryer. 
  • Fast – If you are in a hurry, this air fryer recipe is a great option. Air fryer chicken thighs cook fast, so you’ll be enjoying crispy air fryer chicken thighs under 30 minutes.  
air fryer cheat sheet

Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken – Boneless skinless chicken thighs are healthier and lower in saturated fat than skin-on chicken thighs, and cooking in the air fryer uses less oil. 
  • Seasoning – Combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. 
  • Oil – Use olive oil or another light, neutral oil. 
the ingredients needed for making air fryer boneless chicken thighs

How To Cook Boneless Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

Get full ingredients list and instructions from the recipe card below.

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F / 200 degrees C.
  2. In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and olive oil to make a thick marinade.  
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade and toss until the chicken thighs are fully coated in the seasoning mix. 
  4. Add the seasoned boneless chicken thighs to the preheated air fryer basket and leave space between them to allow the hot air to circulate. 
  5. Air fry for 12-16 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken thighs, and flip the chicken thigh halfway through cooking.

Note: Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees F / 74 degrees C when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken thigh.

image collage showing the steps or making air fryer boneless chicken thighs

Tips For Success

  • Preheat your air fryer according to the directions for your specific air fryer model. 
  • When selecting chicken thighs, look for chicken thighs that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
  • Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces after handling raw chicken. Raw chicken can make you sick. 
  • Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. The seasoning mixture will stick to the chicken better if it is dry. 
  • You can marinate the chicken thighs in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Marinating is optional.  
  • Because of the oil in the marinade, there is no need to spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. 
  • Leave space between the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket. Allowing the hot air to circulate will give you super crispy chicken thighs.
  • Cook the air fryer chicken thighs in batches if needed. 
  • Flip the boneless chicken thighs in air fryer halfway through cooking. 
  • Begin checking for doneness at the minimum cooking time so you don’t overcook the chicken thighs. 
  • Do not consume raw chicken or undercooked chicken.
  • Always use a meat thermometer when you cook chicken thighs to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the air fryer chicken thighs should be 165 degrees F / 74 degrees C when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken thighs.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. 

Variations

  • Omit the Oil – Adding a little olive oil to the marinade will really help you to achieve crispy air fried chicken thighs. If you prefer to cook without oil, you can omit it and just use the dry seasoning mix. 
  • Swap The Seasonings – The beauty of this easy air fryer recipe is how versatile it can be. Easily swap the seasonings to create your favorite spice mix, or consider using BBQ sauce, cayenne pepper for heat, lemon pepper, garlic butter, black pepper, buffalo sauce, seasoning salt, or your favorite chicken seasoning. 
close up view of the air fryer boneless chicken thighs

Budget-Friendly Tips 

  • Buy Chicken In Bulk – Chicken thighs are already affordable but buy them in bulk to save even more. They can be frozen for up to 6 months before being cooked or air fried. 
  • Double The Recipe – Double the recipe and use the leftovers for easy lunches or freeze them for quick meals later on. 
  • Use In Other Recipes – The leftover chicken can be shredded and used in another recipe. 

Prep Ahead And Storage

  • Prep Ahead – Mix the seasoning marinade and marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours if desired.
  • Store – Place leftover air fryer boneless chicken thighs in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. 
  • Freeze – Cool the chicken entirely before wrapping it with plastic and placing it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost the boneless chicken thighs overnight in the fridge before reheating. 
  • Reheating – Reheating chicken thighs is easy to do. To reheat chicken thighs in air fryer, air fry for 2-4 minutes at 400 degrees F or 200 degrees C or in an oven. You can reheat chicken thighs in the microwave, but the chicken skin will not be as crispy. 

Meal Prep

  • Eat easy air fryer chicken thighs for dinner and enjoy the leftovers for 4 more days. 
  • Freeze marinated chicken in an airtight container to make meal prep even easier on another night. 
  • Mix the marinade in advance and marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours before cooking in the air fryer. 
the completed air fryer boneless chicken thighs on a white plate

FAQs

How Long To Cook Boneless Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer?

It will take air fryer boneless chicken thighs about 12-16 minutes to cook through, depending on the size of your chicken thighs. The model of your air fryer can also affect cooking times so this should serve as a guide. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I Cook Frozen Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer?

Deglaze frozen chicken thighs by running under cold water to remove the thin layer of ice that forms on the surface. Completely dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel before mixing with the marinade. Add the chicken thighs to the air fryer basket and cook in air fryer at 400 degrees F / 200 degrees C for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

How Long To Marinate Chicken Thighs?

You can let the chicken thighs rest in the marinade mixture for up to 24 hours. Marinating is not required for this recipe and the chicken will be flavorful even if you skip this step. You can also marinate chicken thighs before freezing.

the finished air fryer boneless chicken thighs on a white plate

More Recipes You May Like

  • Air Fryer Chicken and Cabbage.
  • Air Fryer Chicken Breast.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs.
  • Air Fryer Whole Chicken.
  • Air Fryer Chicken Breast.
  • Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast.
  • Reheat Food In Air Fryer.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes.
  • Smothered Green Beans.
  • Strawberry Avocado Pasta Salad.

Weight Watchers Points

There are 4 Blue Plan SmartPoints in one serving of this.

Get The Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer Recipe:

the completed air fryer boneless chicken thighs on a white plate

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Crispy, juicy boneless chicken thighs cooked in air fryer.
Print Pin Rate Save RecipeSaved!
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 187kcal
Author: Bintu Hardy | Budget Delicious

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • salt to taste
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F / 200 degrees C.
  • In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt and olive oil to make a thick marinade.
  • Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade and toss until the chicken thighs are fully coated in the seasoning mix.
  • Add the seasoned boneless chicken thighs to the air fryer basket and leave space between them to allow the hot air to circulate.
  • Air fry for 12-16 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken thighs. Flip the chicken thigh halfway through cooking.
  • Cook until the internal temperature of the chicken thighs reaches 165 degrees F / 74 degrees C.

Notes

  • Preheat your air fryer according to the directions for your specific air fryer model. 
  • When selecting chicken thighs, look for chicken thighs that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
  • Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces after handling raw chicken. Raw chicken can make you sick. 
  • Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. The seasoning mixture will stick to the chicken better if it is dry. 
  • You can marinate the chicken thighs in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Marinating is optional.  
  • Because of the oil in the marinade, there is no need to spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. 
  • Leave space between the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket. Allowing the hot air to circulate will give you super crispy chicken thighs.
  • Cook the air fryer chicken thighs in batches if needed. 
  • Flip the boneless chicken thighs in air fryer halfway through cooking. 
  • Begin checking for doneness at the minimum cooking time so you don’t overcook the chicken thighs. 
  • Do not consume raw chicken.
  • Always use a meat thermometer when you cook chicken thighs to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the air fryer chicken thighs should be 165 degrees F / 74 degrees C when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken thighs.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Storage – keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days.
  • There are 4 WW Blue Plan SmartPoints in a serving of this.

Nutrition

Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 107mg | Sodium: 102mg | Potassium: 306mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 282IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg
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Hi am Bintu and glad to meet you. You will find delicious easy recipes on a budget. Includes easy chicken recipes, easy Instant Pot recipes, easy Air Fryer recipes with simple ingredients loved by the whole family. Let's dig deeper →

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