Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs is your new go-to for weeknight meals. Forget greasy frying pans and lengthy oven bake times; this method delivers juicy, flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time. It's so easy, even beginner cooks will feel like pros! Get ready to experience the magic of air fryer cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Then, in a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the spice mixture. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even longer in the refrigerator). This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cooking in batches ensures even cooking.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Air fry the chicken for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of the chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve your delicious air fryer chicken thighs with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are all excellent choices.
Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding will prevent the chicken from crisping up properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your chicken thighs. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a kick.
- BBQ Chicken: Brush the cooked chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3g
This easy air fryer chicken thigh recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that's ready in minutes. Enjoy!