• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
TikTok

Jo Cooks

Simple - Easy - Comfort

  • All Recipes
    • Course
      • Breakfast
      • Appetizers
      • Lunch
      • Dinner
      • Desserts
      • Side Dishes
      • Soups
      • Salads
      • Sandwiches
      • Drinks/Cocktails
      • Sauces & Dressings
    • Method
      • Crockpot
      • Instant Pot
      • One Pot
      • Air Fryer
      • Casseroles
    • Season
      • Spring
      • Summer
      • Fall
      • Winter
    • Cuisine
      • Asian
      • Italian
      • Mexican
      • European
      • Indian
      • Romanian
      • Mediterranean
      • Middle Eastern
      • American
    • Ingredient
      • Chicken
      • Pork
      • Beef
      • Seafood
      • Lamb
      • Vegetarian
      • Pasta
      • Spices
    • Holiday
      • Christmas
      • Easter
      • Thanksgiving
      • Game Day
      • Valentine's Day
      • St. Patrick's Day
      • Cinco de Mayo
      • Mother's Day
      • Memorial Day
      • Father's Day
      • 4th Of July
      • Labor Day
      • Halloween
    • Recipe Index
  • Cookbooks
    • The Big Book of Jo’s Quick and Easy Meals
    • 30-Minute One-Pot Meals
  • Shop
  • About Jo
FREE recipe eBook!
Search...
All Recipes
Instant Pot
30 Minute
One Pot Meals
Soups
Dips & Dressings
Baking
Pasta
Sandwiches
Sides
Chicken Dinner Air Fryer 30 Minutes or Less
4.6 from 58 votes

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Jump to RecipePrintRate
By: Joanna Cismaru •10/8/22 3 Comments

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

pin for air fryer chicken thighs.

This one-pot Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are amazingly delicious. Imagine something this good that’s also relatively mess-free and incredibly quick and easy. Made with a simple dry rub, this quick and simple recipe packs a big punch of great flavors and can be ready on your dinner table in less than 30 minutes, start to finish. Simple, versatile and delicious!

cooked chicken thighs in the basket of an air fryer.

Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer

This is so simple to make, and I mean really simple, but that’s the way I like it, especially when it tastes that good. The Air Fryer is one of those great inventions that will make your chicken thighs taste like they were fried, but without the added calories, and no more getting splattered with hot grease. It’s also a really a quick way to cook meat for dinner with less mess. For a hearty dinner, pair the chicken with a side dish by making some creamy mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, or a healthy chef salad.

Add or substitute different spices to change up the taste. Try some chili powder, jerk spice, cajun, etc. Don’t be afraid to mix it up if you’re feeling creative!

a chicken thigh with a side of greens salad on a grey plate.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Highlights

✅ QUICK TO MAKE. Anytime you use an air fryer, it’s usually always a quick meal. No fuss, very little mess, and perfect for those busy evenings.

✅ EXTREMELY EASY. Even if you haven’t cooked before, this is a no brainer. You basically need to season the chicken, place it in the pot, and turn the air fryer on. Done!

✅ ONE POT. One thing that is so great about an air fryer is that you can make everything in one pot, and cleanup is really a breeze.

✅ FEW STAPLE INGREDIENTS. With only chicken, and a few basic pantry items, this chicken can be whipped up anytime and in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

overhead shot of ingredients needed to air fryer chicken thighs.
  • Chicken – Use chicken thighs, bone-in with the skin on for the best flavor.
  • Oil – I use a little bit of olive oil to to brush over the chicken pieces. You can also spray the chicken with some cooking spray.
  • Salt/Pepper – Add a little salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garlic – Use garlic powder for some enhanced flavor.
  • Paprika – I use ground smoked paprika. Even just a little bit adds an incredibly smoky flavor and aroma to any dish.
  • Italian seasoning – I use my simple homemade Italian seasoning with a mixture of 5 herbs. Store bought works as well.

How To Make Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer

process shots showing how to prep chicken thighs for air frying.

Make the rub mixture. In a small bowl, combine together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Prep the chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. My air fryer doesn’t really need to be preheated, but in this cake everything will go so fast, you might as well have it ready to go. Before starting, pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Brush each chicken thigh with olive oil on both sides. Generously sprinkle the chicken on both sides with the rub mixture.

Air fry the chicken. Place chicken thighs skin side down in the basket to air fry. Cook for 12 minutes, then turn them over and continue cooking for another 10 minutes. If you like the chicken to have crispy skin, and the thighs are not crispy enough, cook for an additional 5 minutes or until it’s to your liking. The chicken is cooked through when a thermometer reads 165°F inserted in the center of a thigh.

process shots showing how to air fry chicken thighs.

Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs?

You certainly can, but keep in mind they will take a bit less time to cook. If using boneless skinless thighs, they will take about 15 minutes, flipping half way through, until cooked through.

Why Isn’t My Chicken Crispy In The Air Fryer?

Dry the outside of the food properly before you add any oil, so make sure to pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Do not use too much oil, as this will make the food less crispy and more fattening. Meat or poultry can be lightly brushed with oil or sprayed with cooking spray to get the crispiest results.

Do I Need To Clean My Air Fryer After Every Use?

Ideally, your air fryer should be cleaned after every use in order to avoid charred food and gunk buildup. Feel free to wipe down your air fryer’s exterior after every few uses.

air fried chicken thighs on a serving platter over a greens salad.

Expert Tips

  1. Get an instant meat thermometer! Trust me, it will be a life saver! This is the best way to ensure your meat is cooked properly. Luckily, since we’re using an air fryer, we can open the lid and check the internal temperature often and as soon as it reaches 165°F, you know the chicken is done!
  2. I kept the seasoning super simple, but feel free to play around with other spices/herbs to make this recipe your own.
  3. To freeze, make sure to let your chicken cool completely before you freeze it! Transfer it into freezer bags or an airtight container. If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible from the bag as you slide the zipper closed. Leftovers will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  4. It’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer for best results.
  5. Cooking time may need adjusting as necessary if using really small versus really large thighs. Don’t be scared to open the air fryer as often as you like to check for doneness.
  6. If you want to ensure your food does not stick, grease your air fryer basket.

Leftovers

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

a chicken thigh with a side of greens salad on a grey plate.

More Great Recipes To Try

  • Air Fryer Chicken Breast
  • Black Eyed Peas Recipe
  • Air Fryer Turkey Breast
  • Air Fryer Bacon
  • Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
  • Air Fryer Vegetables
  • Chicken Adobo

Before You Begin! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.

cooked chicken thighs in the basket of an air fryer.
4.63 from 58 votes

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Prep 5 minutes minutes
Cook 22 minutes minutes
Total 27 minutes minutes
4
Rate Recipe Print Recipe
This one-pot Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are amazingly delicious. Imagine something this good that's also relatively mess-free and incredibly quick and easy. Made with a simple dry rub, this quick and simple recipe packs a big punch of great flavors and can be ready on your dinner table in less than 30 minutes, start to finish. Simple, versatile and delicious!
Prevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Before You Begin! If you make this, please leave a review and rating letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business thrive & continue providing free recipes.

Instructions 

  • Make the rub mixture. In a small bowl, combine together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
  • Prep the chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Before starting, pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Brush each chicken thigh with olive oil on both sides. Generously sprinkle the chicken on both sides with the rub mixture.
  • Air fry the chicken. Place chicken thighs skin side down in the basket to air fry. Cook for 12 minutes, then turn them over and continue cooking for another 10 minutes. If you like the chicken to have crispy skin, and the thighs are not crispy enough, cook for an additional 5 minutes or until it’s to your liking. The chicken is cooked through when a thermometer reads 165°F inserted in the center of a thigh.

Equipment

  • 1 GoWISE USA Air Fryer

Notes

  1. Get an instant meat thermometer! Trust me, it will be a life saver! This is the best way to ensure your meat is cooked properly. Luckily, since we’re using an air fryer, we can open the lid and check the temperature often and as soon as it reaches 165°F, you know the chicken is done!
  2. I kept the seasoning super simple, but feel free to play around with other spices/herbs to make this recipe your own.
  3. To freeze, make sure to let your chicken cool completely before you freeze it! Transfer it into freezer bags or an airtight container. If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible from the bag as you slide the zipper closed. Leftovers will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  4. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1thighCalories: 202kcal (10%)Carbohydrates: 1gProtein: 22g (44%)Fat: 12g (18%)Saturated Fat: 2g (13%)Polyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 107mg (36%)Sodium: 392mg (17%)Potassium: 307mg (9%)Fiber: 1g (4%)Sugar: 1g (1%)Vitamin A: 283IU (6%)Vitamin C: 1mg (1%)Calcium: 21mg (2%)Iron: 1mg (6%)

Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.

cooked chicken thighs in the basket of an air fryer.

Did You Make This?

We love seeing what you made! Tag us on Instagram at @jocooks or hashtag #jocooks so we can see your creations!

Rate Recipe
Add Your Photo!
  • 324
Home Recipes
Joanna Cismaru

Joanna Cismaru

I’m Joanna (Jo for short) and this is my blog where I share with you my culinary adventures. Through Jo Cooks, I invite you to join me in my kitchen as we explore delicious recipes from around the globe, celebrate the joy of cooking, and make every meal a memorable one. Happy cooking!

Read More
iPad showing title of ebook 30 recipes from around the world
Subscribe

Get our FREE recipe eBook + weekly newsletter!

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
Did you make this recipe? Rate it:




The comment form collects your name, email and content to allow us keep track of the comments placed on the website. Please read and accept our website Terms and Privacy Policy to post a comment.

guest
Did you make this recipe? Rate it:




The comment form collects your name, email and content to allow us keep track of the comments placed on the website. Please read and accept our website Terms and Privacy Policy to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

3 Comments
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Jay Lazar
Jay Lazar
Posted: 11 months ago

Hi Joanna,
I enjoy your recipes, but do you have any for the new style Oven Air Fryer not just for the regular. I got the oven style because I make beef Jerky and dehydrate things.
Multumesc frumos.

0
Reply
Joanna Cismaru
Joanna Cismaru
Author
Reply to  Jay Lazar
Posted: 11 months ago

Hi Jay! I’m not sure what the new style oven air fryer is? I use the cosori now. Got a link to it, so I know what you’re talking about?

0
Reply
Janet Herod Moore
Janet Herod Moore
Posted: 1 year ago

So easy to cook and delicious……..thigh is my favorite part of the chicken.

0
Reply

sidebar

Headshot of Joanna Cismaru

Hey there!

I’m Joanna (Jo for short) and this is the place where I share my passion for easy and delicious recipes. From comforting classics to global flavors, I believe that cooking should be fun, approachable, and most importantly, rewarding. Join me on this culinary journey and let’s get cooking!

Read More
Collage of recipe ebooks
Subscribe

Get our FREE recipe eBook + weekly newsletter!

Pasta Favorites

baked mac and cheese in a black cast iron skillet.
45 minutes mins

Baked Mac And Cheese

freshly made crack chicken penne with a wooden spoon in a skillet.
40 minutes mins

Crack Chicken Penne

chicken pot pie pasta in a white serving bowl with a wooden serving spoon.
50 minutes mins

Chicken Pot Pie Pasta

freshly made one pot pasta in a dutch oven.
20 minutes mins

One Pot Pasta

tomato spinach chicken pasta in a white bowl.
30 minutes mins

Tomato Spinach Chicken Pasta

homemade hamburger helper lasagna from scratch in a skillet.
30 minutes mins

One Pot Hamburger Helper Lasagna

baked feta pasta in a white bowl garnished with fresh basil.
50 minutes mins

Baked Feta Pasta (Tik Tok Pasta)

sideview shot of chicken fajita pasta in a white bowl with a fork inside
45 minutes mins

Chicken Fajita Pasta

side close up shot of swedish meatball pasta in a beige braised garnished with parsley
30 minutes mins

Swedish Meatball Pasta

overhead shot of a bowl of haluski
40 minutes mins

Haluski (Cabbage and Noodles)

A stack of cookbooks
Grab a copy!

My Cookbooks

Order Now: Amazon | Indigo | Barnes & Noble | Indie Bound | Books-A-Million

Dinner Favorites

smothered pork chops in a skillet garnished with parsley.
1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Smothered Pork Chops

a wooden spoon lifting a salisbury steak out of the skillet
30 minutes mins

Salisbury Steak

beef lo mein in a black wok.
30 minutes mins

Beef Lo Mein

side shot of beef and broccoli in a skillet
15 minutes mins

Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

skillet shepherd's pie in a cast iron skillet with a portion taken out.
1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Skillet Shepherd’s Pie

a serving spoon inside a skillet with chicken broccoli rice casserole.
30 minutes mins

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

side view shot of two italian stuffed peppers in a bowl
2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Italian Stuffed Peppers

a serving of spaghetti bolognese in a white bowl garnished with parsley.
1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Spaghetti Bolognese

Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
TikTok
Visit our Other Site: Craving Home Cooked

Explore

Recipes
Cookbooks
About Jo
Contact

Legal

Privacy Policy
Accessibility
Disclaimers
© 2023 Jo Cooks
Site Credits
Designed by Melissa Rose Design Developed by Once Coupled
Back to Top
wpDiscuz