Benefits of Cooking airfryer chicken thighs

There are many benefits to cooking chicken thighs in air fryer. First and foremost, air frying is a healthier cooking method than deep-frying because it uses little to no oil. This means you can enjoy crispy, delicious chicken without all the added calories and fat that come with deep-frying. Air frying also cooks food quickly and evenly, so your chicken thighs will be perfectly cooked every time. And unlike traditional frying, there’s no need to worry about hot oil splattering everywhere, making air frying a safer option.

Tips for Cooking Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

To get the best results when cooking air fryer chicken thighs, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Preheat your air fryer. It’s important to preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken thighs. This helps to ensure that they cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
2. Season your chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are naturally flavorful, but adding some seasoning can take them to the next level. A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika is a great starting point.
3. Use a meat thermometer. The best way to ensure that your chicken thighs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked.
4. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking. Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking helps to ensure that it cooks evenly on both sides and gets crispy all over.
5. Let the chicken rest before serving. After cooking the chicken thighs, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to lock in the juices and keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Here’s a simple recipe for air fryer chicken thighs:

Ingredients we used for making chicken thighs in the air fryer

• 4 Bone in skin on chicken thighs, trimed of excess fat and skin
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Oregano
• ½ teaspoon Onion powder

Most asked questions about air fryer chicken thighs recipe

Can you cook frozen chicken thighs in air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer. However, it’s important to note that cooking times will be longer than for fresh or thawed chicken thighs. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
2. Place the frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
3. Cook the chicken thighs for 22-25 minutes, flipping them over halfway through the cooking time.
4. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.
5. If the chicken thighs are not fully cooked, continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, checking the internal temperature regularly.

It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the frozen chicken thighs. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Should you remove the skin from chicken thighs before cooking them in an air fryer?

Whether to remove the skin from chicken thighs before cooking them in an air fryer is a matter of personal preference. Here are some things to consider:

1. Leaving the skin on will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful, as the skin helps to trap in the juices.
2. If you prefer crispy skin, leaving the skin on will also allow it to get crispy in the air fryer.
3. However, if you’re trying to reduce your calorie or fat intake, you may want to remove the skin before cooking, as it does add extra calories and fat to the dish.
4. If you decide to leave the skin on, make sure to season it well before cooking to enhance the flavor.

Ultimately, the choice of whether to remove the skin from chicken thighs before cooking in an air fryer is up to you and your personal preferences.

Can you use marinade or sauce when cooking chicken thighs in air fryer?

Yes, you can use marinade or sauce when cooking chicken thighs in air fryer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. If using a marinade, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before placing them in the air fryer. Excess marinade can cause the chicken to become soggy or even burn in the air fryer.
2. If using a sauce, wait until the last few minutes of cooking to brush it onto the chicken thighs. This will prevent the sauce from burning in the air fryer.
3. Be careful not to use too much marinade or sauce, as it can cause the chicken to become soggy or even cause the air fryer to smoke.
4. Make sure the marinade or sauce is fully cooked before serving the chicken. This is especially important for sauces that contain raw ingredients like garlic or onions.

By following these tips, you can successfully use marinade or sauce when cooking chicken thighs in air fryer to add flavor and variety to your meals.

Can I cook air fryer boneless chicken thighs?