Print

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Print Recipe

Juicy boneless skinless chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer with a simple smoky spice rub. Ready in about 30 minutes with a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 4 medium pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Cooking oil spray (avocado oil or olive oil)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels on all surfaces to remove surface moisture.
  2. Trim any large pieces of excess fat from the edges of each thigh using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.
  3. Mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Season both sides of each thigh and press gently so the spices adhere. Rest for 5–10 minutes at room temperature if time allows.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. Arrange the chicken thighs smooth side down in a single layer with at least ½ inch of space between each piece. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 16–18 minutes, flipping each thigh at the halfway point. Spray the newly exposed surface with oil after flipping.
  7. Check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the largest thigh — the minimum safe temperature is 165°F (74°C), but 175°F (79°C) yields the most tender result.
  8. Transfer to a plate and rest for 3–5 minutes before cutting or serving.

Notes

Pat the chicken very dry before seasoning — surface moisture is the biggest enemy of a crispy exterior.

For best texture, pull dark meat at 175°F rather than the USDA minimum of 165°F; connective tissue breaks down fully and the thigh becomes more tender.

Do not overcrowd the basket — leave at least ½ inch between pieces for proper air circulation and even browning.

Thin thighs may be done in 12–13 minutes; thick thighs may need up to 18 minutes. Always verify with a thermometer.

Find it online: https://airfrycentral.com/air-fryer-boneless-chicken-thighs/