Air fryer chicken thighs are just what you need for a quick flavorful dinner. Made in less than 30 minutes, this chicken thigh recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Make this a full meal with a side of air fryer vegetables and baked potatoes.

I am all about quick and simple meals like these turkey meatballs and this shrimp and sausage meal.

These boneless skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer have moved up to one of my top favorite meals to make for the family. Everyone loves how flavorful they are and the best part is that it only takes minutes to prepare and cook.

Why this recipe works

• Budge friendly, delicious meal that works for the whole family.
• Delicious protein and can be used for meal prep throughout the week.
• No breading needed, this chicken is packed with flavor.

Ingredients needed

• Chicken thighs – I am using boneless, skinless thighs. You can also use bone-in chicken thighs with skin.
• Olive oil – This helps to prevent sticking and also achieving the golden brown color.
• Lemon juice – Adds a nice fresh flavor to the chicken.
• Seasonings – Lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. You can use your favorite seasoning blend like this simple chicken seasoning, jerk seasoning, taco seasoning and more.

How to make air fryer chicken thighs

Scroll to the bottom for full printable recipe, ingredients and video. 

1. Prepare: Preheat air fryer for 2-5 minutes. Pat chicken dry and then brush the olive oil over the chicken. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
2. Spices: In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Sprinkle and rub spices all over the chicken thighs.
3. Cook: Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken thighs. Check to make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh to check the temperature of the chicken.

Recipe tips

• Be sure to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before adding the oil and seasoning. This helps to get a crispier thigh.
• Don’t stack the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, place them in a single layer. It is important for the hot air to be able to circulate around the chicken so it cooks evenly. (I was able to fit 6 pieces in my 5.8 quart basket.)
• I like to preheat the air fryer when cooking chicken thighs.
• Cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer you are using.
• If you are using bone-in chicken thighs, cook at 380 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F.
• If you prefer crispier chicken thighs, use skin on thighs.

How to store

Store: Keep in leftover air fryer chicken thighs in an airtight container after they have cooled to room temperature. Keep in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Reheat: Warm them back up in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the air fryer for at least 4-5 minutes.

What to serve with chicken thighs

Chicken goes well with so many different side dishes. A few favorites include:

• Fried squash
• Slaw
• Pea salad
• Fried corn
• French fries

FAQ’s

More easy air fryer chicken recipes

• Thin chicken in the air fryer – Thinly sliced chicken cooked in the air fryer
• Air fryer rotisserie style chicken – Forget the grocery store, make your own rotisserie chicken.
• Air fryer BBQ chicken – Simple BBQ chicken recipe.
• Air fryer chicken legs – Easy meal with crispy skin.
• Air fryer orange chicken – Make Trader Joe’s orange chicken in the air fryer.
• Air fryer popcorn chicken – Bites of chicken cooked up in the air fryer.

If you made this air fryer chicken thighs recipe, make sure to leave a comment and star rating.