Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs have become a popular dish for those who want a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
This cooking method uses hot air to cook the chicken, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior without the need for excess oil.
The air fryer is a countertop appliance that has gained popularity in recent years due to its convenience and versatility.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for the air fryer because they cook quickly and are less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts.
They are also more flavorful due to the higher fat content.
How to make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer?
To prepare air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs simply:
- Season them with your preferred spices and place them in the basket of the air fryer
- Cook for about 18 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs can be enjoyed on their own or used in a variety of recipes, such as salads, sandwiches, and tacos.
Read on to read our more in-depth Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe.
Ingredients Needed
To make air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, the following ingredients are needed:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: This is the main ingredient for this recipe. It is recommended to use fresh chicken thighs for best results.
- Salt and Pepper: These are essential seasonings that add flavor to the chicken thighs.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic or garlic powder can be used to add a savory taste to the chicken thighs.
- Paprika: This spice adds a smoky flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken thighs.
- Oil: A small amount of oil is needed to help the chicken thighs become crispy in the air fryer.
- Seasoning mix: A blend of herbs and spices such as onion powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, lemon garlic, and honey mustard can be used to add more flavor to the chicken thighs.
To prepare the chicken thighs, start by seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika. Then, toss them with oil and the seasoning mix until they are evenly coated. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes.
Overall, the ingredients needed for air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are simple and easy to find. With the right combination of spices and seasonings, this dish can be a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal.
Nutritional Content
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a healthy and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are low in calories and high in protein, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
One 3-ounce serving of air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs contains approximately 140 calories, 3 grams of fat, and 26 grams of protein. They are also low in sodium, with only 65 milligrams per serving. Additionally, air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a good source of potassium, with 270 milligrams per serving.
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy eyes and skin, as well as vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system. They are also a good source of iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells, and calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones.
While air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs do contain some cholesterol, with approximately 85 milligrams per serving, they are still a healthy option when consumed in moderation. They are also low in saturated fat, with only 1 gram per serving, and contain no trans fat.
Overall, air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a healthy and nutritious meal option that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are low in calories, high in protein, and contain essential vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining good health.
Cooking Process
Cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal. Here are some tips to ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection:
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is an important step to ensure that the chicken thighs cook evenly. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes before adding the chicken. This will help the chicken to cook evenly and prevent any undercooked or overcooked spots.
Cook the Chicken Thighs
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket as this can cause the chicken to cook unevenly. Cook the chicken thighs at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
Check the Internal Temperature
To ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh to get an accurate reading.
Breading
If you want to add breading to your chicken thighs, you can do so before placing them in the air fryer. Dip the chicken thighs in beaten eggs and then coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
Overall, cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer is a healthy and easy way to prepare a delicious meal. Just remember to preheat the air fryer, cook the chicken thighs at the correct temperature, and check the internal temperature to ensure that they are fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:
Serve with a Salad
A fresh salad is a great way to complement the savory flavor of air fryer chicken thighs. Consider serving the chicken on top of a bed of mixed greens and vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and carrots. Drizzle with your favorite dressing, such as ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, for a light and refreshing meal.
Pair with Rice or Potatoes
For a heartier meal, serve air fryer chicken thighs with a side of rice or potatoes. Rice can be flavored with herbs and spices, such as garlic and thyme, for added depth of flavor. Potatoes can be roasted or mashed, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and butter.
Add a Side Dish
To round out the meal, consider adding a side dish. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, are a healthy and delicious option. Mac and cheese or teriyaki noodles are also great choices for a more indulgent meal.
Overall, the possibilities for serving air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are endless. Whether you choose to serve them with a salad, rice, or a side dish, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Recipe Variations
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit different preferences. Here are a few recipe variations to try:
Spicy Garlic Chicken Thighs
For those who love a bit of heat, try adding some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. In a bowl, combine garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix onto the chicken thighs and drizzle with avocado oil. Cook in the air fryer until crispy and cooked through.
BBQ Chicken Thighs
For a classic BBQ flavor, rub the chicken thighs with a BBQ seasoning mix or your favorite BBQ sauce. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer and cook until crispy and cooked through. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Italian Chicken Thighs
For an Italian twist, use Italian seasoning to season the chicken thighs. In a bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix onto the chicken thighs and drizzle with avocado oil. Cook in the air fryer until crispy and cooked through.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Thighs
For an Asian-inspired flavor, try marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer and cook until crispy and cooked through. Serve with steamed vegetables and rice.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
For a fresh and zesty flavor, season the chicken thighs with lemon pepper seasoning. In a bowl, combine lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix onto the chicken thighs and drizzle with avocado oil. Cook in the air fryer until crispy and cooked through.
Experiment with different spices, seasonings, and sauces to create your own unique flavor combinations. With an air fryer, the possibilities are endless.
Storage and Reheating
When it comes to storage and reheating of air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, there are a few things to keep in mind. Proper storage and reheating techniques can help ensure that the chicken is safe to eat and retains its flavor and texture.
Storage
To store air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, they should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store the chicken for longer than that, it can be frozen.
To freeze the chicken, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, there are a few different methods you can use. One option is to reheat the chicken in the air fryer. To do this, preheat the air fryer to 350°F, place the chicken in the basket, and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Another option is to reheat the chicken in the microwave. To do this, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to make sure that the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it's safe to eat.
In summary, storing and reheating air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs is easy as long as you follow proper techniques. By storing the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, and reheating it in the air fryer or microwave, you can enjoy delicious chicken that's safe to eat and retains its flavor and texture.
Meal Prep and Planning
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prep and planning. With their tender and juicy texture, they make for a flavorful and satisfying weeknight dinner that can be prepared ahead of time.
Cook time for air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs is relatively short, making them a great option for meal prep. Simply season them with salt and pepper or your preferred seasonings and cook them in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in your favorite sauce or seasoning blend before air frying. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and make meal prep even easier.
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are also a great option for those following a keto diet. They are high in protein and low in carbs, making them a perfect addition to any keto meal plan.
If you prefer chicken breast over chicken thighs, you can still use the air fryer to cook them. However, chicken breast tends to dry out more easily than chicken thighs, so be sure to marinate them in a flavorful sauce or seasoning blend to keep them juicy and flavorful.
Overall, air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a versatile and flavorful option for meal prep and planning. With their easy preparation, tender texture, and delicious flavor, they are sure to become a staple in any weeknight dinner rotation.
Notes and Tips
When cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results. Here are some notes and tips to help you achieve perfectly cooked, crispy chicken thighs every time:
- Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Boneless chicken thighs cook more evenly and quickly than bone-in chicken thighs, making them a great choice for air frying. Plus, removing the skin helps reduce the fat content of the dish.
- Use olive oil: Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil before seasoning them to help the seasoning stick and to promote even browning.
- Season generously: Don't be afraid to use plenty of seasoning on your chicken thighs. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning are all great choices. For a gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free seasonings.
- Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer: To ensure even cooking and crispy skin, arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking: Flip the chicken thighs over halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest before serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become more tender.
By following these tips, you can create delicious, crispy boneless skinless chicken thighs in your air fryer for a quick and easy dinner option.
Conclusion
Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy and juicy texture without the added oil and calories.
When cooking boneless skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer, it is important to preheat the air fryer and not overcrowd the basket to ensure even cooking. Using a dry rub or marinade can add flavor to the chicken without the need for breading or excess oil.
Additionally, air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great source of protein and can be enjoyed as a main dish or added to salads or sandwiches. Using sugar-free or homemade BBQ sauce can also make this meal keto-friendly.
Overall, air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a versatile and healthy option for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
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