Cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer is one of the easiest ways to achieve crispy skin, juicy meat, and perfect flavour — all without extra oil or long cooking times. Whether you prefer bone-in, boneless, skin-on, or skinless chicken thighs, the air fryer delivers consistent results with minimal effort. This guide breaks down the right cooking times, temperatures, and tips to help you get the most delicious chicken thighs every single time.
How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?
The cooking time depends mainly on whether the chicken thighs are bone-in or boneless, and whether they have skin. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Chicken Thigh Type | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on thighs | 190°C | 20–25 minutes |
| Boneless, skinless thighs | 190°C | 15–18 minutes |
| Frozen thighs (bone-in) | 190°C | 25–30 minutes |
| Frozen thighs (boneless) | 190°C | 18–22 minutes |
Tip: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 74°C for safe eating.
Best Way to Season Chicken Thighs Before Air Frying
You can keep the seasoning simple or get creative. Chicken thighs are rich and flavourful, so they hold up beautifully to different seasoning blends.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a classic flavour
- Lemon pepper and olive oil for a zesty finish
- BBQ rub for a smoky, caramelized crust
- Herb mix with rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant taste
Step-By-Step Method for Perfect Air-Fried Chicken Thighs
- Preheat the air fryer to 190°C for even cooking.
- Pat dry the chicken thighs to help crisp the skin.
- Season generously on all sides.
- Place in a single layer in the basket — overcrowding reduces crisping.
- Cook and flip halfway for even browning.
- Check internal temperature to ensure it reaches 74°C.
How to Get Extra Crispy Skin
If you love a super-crispy finish, try these simple tricks:
- Brush a small amount of olive oil on the skin before air frying.
- Cook the last 3 minutes at 200°C for extra crunch.
- Avoid wet marinades — they prevent crisping.
Can You Cook Marinated Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Marinated chicken thighs come out juicy and flavour-packed. If using a wet marinade, shake off excess liquid before placing them in the air fryer. This helps the surface caramelize instead of steaming.
Why Air Fryers Are Ideal for Chicken Thighs
Air fryers circulate hot air around the chicken, cooking it quickly while still giving a fried-style crisp. You also use much less oil compared to traditional frying. For busy households or healthy cooking routines, air fryers are a must-have kitchen tool.
Looking for a Quality Air Fryer?
We offer a carefully selected range of reliable air fryers from trusted brands like Instant Pot, Sheffield, Salter, and GreenPan. These models are known for fast heating, user-friendly controls, and consistent cooking results—perfect for making delicious chicken thighs and many more meals.
