These air-fried skinless chicken thighs are crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. In under 30 minutes, you can have juicy, crispy chicken packed with flavor. This recipe is especially great for busy weeknights, making it an easy recipe for the whole family.

The Best air fried skinless chicken thighs

This recipe shines thanks to a flavorful sauce that enhances the crispy chicken thighs. It adds a rich, savory taste that complements the tender meat perfectly. It’s a simple but delicious way to elevate the dish, making every bite packed with even more flavor.

For easier air-fried recipes try my Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Spicy Ginger Soy Glaze and Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings.

Ingredients

Marinade for chicken

Chicken thighs: For the best flavor, I used skinless, bone-in chicken thighs and made sure to cut slits into the meat. This allows the marinade to seep in, ensuring every bite is packed with delicious flavor. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs too.

Tomato paste: You can add tomato paste to the marinade for an extra flavor boost. It adds a rich, tangy depth that enhances the overall taste of the chicken thighs. Just a spoonful can make a big difference.

Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice in the marinade brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing citrus tang. It also helps tenderize the chicken, making it even more juicy and flavorful.

Oil: You can use any cooking oil for this recipe, but vegetable oil works best. It helps the chicken thighs cook evenly and adds a nice, subtle richness to the dish. Plus, it blends well with the other marinade ingredients.

Garlic powder: It adds a savory, rich flavor to the chicken without overpowering the marinade.

Black pepper and salt

For the sauce

I use butter, garlic paste or minced garlic, paprika, and either coconut milk or heavy cream—coconut milk saves calories, but heavy cream adds richness when preferred.

How to make the Best Air Fried Skinless Chicken Thighs

1. Prepare the Chicken:
Wash and pat dry the chicken with paper towel. Make a few slits in the chicken thighs to help the marinade absorb.
In a small bowl, mix tomato paste, lemon juice, vegetable oil, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, making sure it gets into the slits. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes to marinate.
2. Air Fry the Chicken:
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic paste or minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in paprika, then pour in the coconut milk (or heavy cream).
Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
After cooking the chicken thighs, you can brush the garlic cream sauce over them and air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes for extra flavor. While the sauce is already cooked, this step adds a nice finish, but you can skip it if you prefer.

Helpful tips

Choose the Right Cut:
Using bone-In skinless thighs is a great way to get moist meat without excess fat. If you prefer, you can also use boneless thighs or skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Prepping the Chicken:
Before cooking, make sure to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to achieve the best crispy skin. You can also spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray or olive oil spray to enhance the crispiness. This step is essential for air fryer chicken recipes, as it helps the air fry chicken thighs to cook evenly.
Cooking Process:
Place the marinated or seasoned chicken thighs in a large bowl. You want to ensure they're coated evenly with the seasoning mix. When you’re ready to cook, arrange them in a preheated air fryer in a single layer. This allows for maximum air circulation and the best possible cook time.
Set the air fryer to degrees F that suit your model (typically around 360°F). Cook chicken thighs for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides achieve a nice golden brown color. This step is crucial for getting that desired crispy exterior.
Serve with Favorite Sides:
Pair your crispy air fryer chicken thighs with green beans, brussels sprouts, or air fryer bok choy for a well-rounded meal. These sides are not only delicious but also a low-carb option that complements the main dish perfectly.
Meal Prep Made Easy:
If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a fantastic choice. You can prepare a large batch, store any leftover chicken in tight containers, and enjoy them throughout the week. Just reheat in the air fryer for a couple of minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-fryer taste.