Name: AIR FRYER BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN THIGHS
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); lemon wedges for serving (optional)

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If you try one air fryer chicken thighs recipe, let it be this one! These Parmesan Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and downright irresistible. The crispy parmesan crust takes them to the next level, making this dish one you’ll want to make on repeat.

They are perfect for a weeknight meal and cook quickly in the air fryer with simple, delicious flavor and minimal effort. Pair them with a side salad, air fryer red potatoes, or roasted veggies for an effortless meal that feels gourmet but comes together in minutes. Get ready to fall in love with these parmesan chicken thighs!

Why You Will Love Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients Needed
How To Make Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
How Long To Air Fry Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Serving Suggestions
Expert Tips
Storage Instructions
Variations
Frequently Asked Questions
More Recipes To Try Next!
AIR FRYER BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN THIGHS Recipe

Why You Will Love Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

We used boneless skinless chicken thighs to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor. For other easy air fryer chicken recipes try our air fryer chicken tenders and air fryer chicken bites!
Air frying chicken thighs ensures they are juicy yet have a golden crispy exterior.
This recipe is fast and easy! There’s minimal prep work.
These chicken thighs are packed with flavor from garlic, parmesan, and herbs.
This recipe is great for meal prep! The chicken thighs are perfect for salads, bowls, or as a main served with sides.

Ingredients Needed

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: For this recipe, use one pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs.
Olive Oil: Just a touch of oil to ensure the seasonings stick and to help the chicken thighs become crispy.
Italian Seasoning: Adds incredible flavor to the chicken thighs.
Garlic Powder: Adds additional flavor and depth.
Onion Powder: Adds another layer of flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Season with salt and pepper.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the chicken thighs in the last two minutes of cooking for a crispy, cheesy burst of flavor.
Parsley: As an option, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How To Make Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Then, add them to a large bowl.

Pat dry boneless skinless chicken thighs

Step 2: Add the olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs in large bowl

Step 3: Mix to evenly coat the chicken thighs in the seasonings.

Step 4: Place a parchment paper liner in your air fryer for easy cleanup. After that, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Seasoned boneless skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer

Step 5: Air fry the boneless skinless chicken thighs, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.

Step 6: Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the chicken thighs in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Chicken thighs with grated parmesan cheese

Step 7: Once done, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Air fried boneless skinless chicken thighs

How Long To Air Fry Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Cook boneless skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-17 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For this recipe, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the chicken thighs during the last two minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer chicken thighs are versatile and can be sliced and added to a variety of dishes. Incorporate them into salads for extra protein, or slice them up for a satisfying wrap filled with your favorite veggies, spreads, and toppings. They also make a great addition to grain bowls or tacos. There are so many options for quick and delicious meals!

For a balanced and filling meal, pair your air fryer chicken thighs with roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, brussels sprouts, and squash. If you’re craving comfort, serve the chicken thighs with creamy mashed potatoes. Or, slice them and add them to cottage cheese Alfredo for a comforting high-protein dish. For a lighter option, try serving them over quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice.

You can also complement the chicken thighs with a fresh Caesar salad or any salad of your choice. For an extra touch of crispiness, serve them alongside air fryer diced potatoes or air fryer carrots. To complete the meal, serve them with a side of air fryer corn on the cob.

Expert Tips

Pat The Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes crispiness when air frying.
Easy Cleanup: For easy cleanup afterward, add a parchment paper liner to your air fryer basket.
Don’t Overcrowd The Basket: Place the chicken thighs in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. There needs to be enough room for the hot air to circulate so the chicken thighs cook evenly.
Flip Halfway: Flip the chicken thighs about halfway through the air frying process, around 7-8 minutes in, to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the chicken in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This allows it to melt and create a golden, crispy crust without burning.
Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs have reached an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Let The Chicken Rest: Once air-fried, allow the chicken thighs to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing or serving. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful.

Storage Instructions

Storing: Store leftover air-fried chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness.

Variations

Bone-In Chicken Thighs: If you are using bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, increase the air frying time by about 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Chicken Thighs with Skin: Air fry with the skin side up for extra crispiness. The skin will add even more flavor and a delicious crunch.
Double The Recipe: You can easily double this recipe to make more for meal prep! However, make sure to cook the chicken thighs in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Spicy: For a kick of spice add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Homemade Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/8 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook The Chicken Thighs In The Oven Instead?

Yes! You can cook the seasoned chicken thighs in the oven instead of the air fryer if preferred. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, coat the chicken thighs with the seasonings and add them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over top during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can even broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispy crust. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Can I Freeze Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?

Yes, you can freeze air-fried chicken thighs. Let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe airtight container. You can freeze them for 1-2 months.