Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

There’s just something about the smell of air-fried chicken that transports me back to family gatherings and late-night snacks. My kids have always loved when I make this recipe, and it’s become a staple in our household. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. I’ve made this countless times, and it never fails to impress. In fact, I’ve even made it for dinner parties and received rave reviews from guests. So, what makes these air fryer chicken thighs so special? Let me tell you – it’s all about the combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and a hint of smoky flavor that’s achieved with the air fryer. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

What is an air fry chicken thigh?

Think of air fryer chicken thighs as a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. Instead of using gallons of oil, you can achieve that same crispy exterior and juicy interior using a fraction of the calories. It’s essentially a game-changer for anyone looking to cut down on their oil intake or simply make a delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. The name “air fryer chicken” might give you the impression that it’s a complicated recipe, but trust me, it’s not. In fact, it’s one of the simplest recipes I’ve ever shared on this blog.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons why you’ll love this air fryer chicken thighs recipe, but here are a few that stand out: the flavor is incredible, the texture is perfect, and it’s ridiculously easy to make. I mean, who doesn’t love a recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup? The best part? You can make it in advance and reheat it later, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s versatile – you can serve it as a main dish, add it to salads, or even use it as a topping for soups. The possibilities are endless!

How do I make air fry chicken thighs?

Quick Overview

In a nutshell, this recipe involves marinating chicken thighs in a mixture of spices and herbs, then cooking them in the air fryer until crispy and golden brown. The result is a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent, with a flavor that’s out of this world. If you’re new to air fryer recipes, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. This recipe is perfect for beginners, and I’ve included plenty of tips and tricks to help you get the perfect results.

Ingredients

What are some of the ingredients you need to make this recipe?

For the Main Batter:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, prep your pan by spraying it with cooking spray and setting it aside. I like to use a pan that’s at least 1/4 inch deep to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined, then set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth, then set aside.

Step 4: Combine

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the dry ingredients over them. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated, then add the wet ingredients and toss again until the chicken is coated in a sticky mixture.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

Spoon the filling mixture onto one half of each chicken thigh, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Fold the other half of the chicken over the filling to enclose it, pressing the edges together to seal.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch of space between each piece. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Bake

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger in a small bowl. Once the chicken is done cooking, brush the glaze over the top of each piece and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs and a side of your favorite dipping sauce.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

Slice the chicken into thin strips and serve immediately. You can also refrigerate or freeze the chicken for later use.

What to Serve It With

Here are some ideas for what to serve with your air fryer chicken thighs:

For Breakfast:

• Coffee or tea
• Toast or biscuits
• Fresh fruit or salad

For Brunch:

• Scrambled eggs or omelets
• Hash browns or roasted potatoes
• Grilled vegetables or fruit salad

As Dessert:

• Fresh fruit or berries
• Whipped cream or ice cream
• Caramel sauce or chocolate syrup

For Cozy Snacks:

• Chips or crackers
• Dips or spreads
• Popcorn or cheese puffs

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Here are some tips to help you perfect your air fryer chicken thighs:

Zucchini Prep:

• Make sure to slice the zucchini thinly and evenly.
• Use a mandoline or sharp knife to prevent shredding.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – cook in batches if necessary.

Mixing Advice:

• Use a gentle touch when mixing the wet and dry ingredients together.
• Don’t overmix – you want the ingredients to remain separate.
• Use a whisk or spatula to incorporate air and prevent lumps.

Swirl Customization:

• Experiment with different glaze combinations to create unique flavors.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Try using different types of honey or maple syrup for a distinct flavor.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Substitute the chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• Use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor.
• Swap the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Baking Tips:

• Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Don’t open the air fryer basket during cooking – this can affect the texture.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Glaze Variations:

• Try using different types of honey or maple syrup for a distinct flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Experiment with different glaze combinations to create unique flavors.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here are some tips for storing and reheating your air fryer chicken thighs:

Room Temperature:

• Let the chicken cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
• Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture from accumulating.
• Reheat in the air fryer or oven until crispy and hot.

Refrigerator Storage:

• Store in an airtight container to prevent moisture from accumulating.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in the air fryer or oven until crispy and hot.

Freezer Instructions:

• Let the chicken cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Store in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheat in the air fryer or oven until crispy and hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

I hope you’ve enjoyed this recipe for air fryer chicken thighs as much as I have. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in yours as well. Remember to always use fresh and high-quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media using the hashtag #airfryerchickenthighs!