Go Back

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy, Crispy & Easy Dinner

Make weeknight dinners a breeze with these Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs—juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and ready in minutes. Perfect for meal prep, quick family dinners, or a flavorful protein-packed meal any night of the week.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course, Meal Prep
Cuisine American, Comfort Food, Quick & Easy
Servings 4 (approx. 4–6 boneless skinless thighs)
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer (basket or tray style)
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Small mixing bowls
  • Knife + cutting board
  • Optional: silicone liner or parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
  • Optional glazes: honey, maple syrup, or buffalo sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pat Dry: Remove excess moisture from chicken thighs using paper towels.
  • Marinate: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, herbs, and lemon juice. Coat chicken evenly. Marinate 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  • Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 380–400°F (193–204°C).
  • Arrange Chicken: Place thighs in air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
  • Cook: Air fry 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer (should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  • Optional Glaze: Brush honey, maple syrup, or sauce in the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
  • Rest: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges and pair with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Do Not Overcrowd: Ensures crispiness and even cooking.
  • Pat Dry: Moisture removal is key to a crispy exterior.
  • Marinate for Flavor: At least 30 minutes; overnight for maximum depth.
  • Check Temperature: 165°F (74°C) internal temperature ensures safe cooking.
  • Flavor Variations: Garlic & herb, smoky paprika, honey glaze, buffalo style, lemon pepper.
  • Storage: Refrigerate cooked thighs up to 3–4 days; freeze up to 2–3 months. Reheat in air fryer for best crispiness.
Keyword air fryer chicken thighs, air fryer recipes, boneless chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, healthy chicken dinner, juicy chicken recipe, quick weeknight chicken