Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Fried Chicken Thighs Bliss

Name: Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Fried Chicken Thighs Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; Cooking spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 1, 2025

air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the first time I made these air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs! The moment they came out, golden brown and crispy, I could hardly contain my excitement. I mean, who wouldn’t love biting into juicy, tender chicken without the guilt of deep frying? Air frying is such a game changer! It gives you that satisfying crunch while using way less oil, so it’s a win-win for both taste and health. Trust me, the flavor is still all there—just imagine the garlic, onion, and paprika dancing together in every bite. I’ve served these at family gatherings, and they disappear faster than I can say “chicken thighs.” Honestly, this recipe has become my go-to for busy weeknights or when I have friends over. They’re quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. You’re going to love them just as much as I do!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe! Here’s what you’ll need:

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs: These are the stars of the show! Make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor and texture.
1 cup buttermilk: This is crucial for marinating! It tenderizes the chicken and adds a lovely tang.
1 cup all-purpose flour: This will form the crispy coating that you’ll love.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that savory punch that pairs perfectly with chicken.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Another layer of flavor that makes this dish sing!
1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a beautiful color and a hint of sweetness.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all those flavors.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: A little kick to elevate the dish.
Cooking spray: To ensure that your chicken doesn’t stick to the air fryer and to achieve that perfect golden finish.

Make sure to have everything prepped and measured out before you start. It really makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Fried Chicken Thighs

Alright, let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to crispy, juicy perfection with your air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs! Trust me, it’s easier than you think.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first—let’s get that chicken marinating! Place your boneless skinless chicken thighs in a bowl or a zip-top bag and pour in the 1 cup of buttermilk. This is where the magic begins, as buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with flavor. Make sure every piece is well-coated. Ideally, you’ll want to let them marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, a few hours or even overnight is fantastic for maximum flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While your chicken is soaking up all that goodness, let’s get the coating ready! In a separate bowl, mix together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well combined. When the chicken is ready, take each piece out of the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Then, coat it evenly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. This will create that delightful crunchy crust we all crave!

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Now it’s time to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden brown color on the outside while staying juicy inside. I usually set my timer for about 5 minutes while I finish coating the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once your air fryer is nice and hot, it’s showtime! Place the coated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd them, or they won’t crisp up as nicely. Give each piece a light spray of cooking spray to help with browning. Cook them for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Yum!

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

After the chicken is done, resist the urge to dive right in! Let the thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making each bite even juicier and tastier. Your patience will definitely pay off!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs recipe has a lot going for it! Here are just a few reasons why you’re going to fall head over heels for it:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and a total of 30 minutes to cook, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Healthier Option: Air frying means you can enjoy that crispy, fried texture without all the extra oil. You get the flavor you love while keeping it lighter.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttermilk and spices creates an explosion of flavor that’s hard to resist. Each bite is juicy and packed with savory goodness!
Ease of Cooking: The air fryer makes this process super simple and straightforward. No need to fuss over hot oil or messy frying pans—just pop the chicken in and let it do its thing!
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves fried chicken! These thighs are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a hit at family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Honestly, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure you nail these air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs! Here are some essential tips that will take your chicken from good to absolutely fantastic:

Double Dipping: For an extra crunchy coating, don’t be shy—double dip! After the initial coating in buttermilk and flour, give those thighs another dip in buttermilk followed by another round of flour. This creates an even thicker, crunchier crust that’s simply irresistible!
Adjusting Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste. If you like a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper or some chili powder to the flour mixture. Or maybe you want to get adventurous with herbs like dried thyme or oregano. Go wild!
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: This one’s super important—make sure to give your chicken thighs enough space in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of that glorious crispiness we all crave. If you have to, cook in batches!
Use Cooking Spray Generously: A light spray of cooking spray is your best friend here. It not only helps with browning but also creates that mouthwatering crunch. Be sure to spray the chicken thighs before cooking and even halfway through for the best results.
Check for Doneness: Always check your chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat. No one wants undercooked chicken, right?
Let It Rest: As tempting as it is to dive in right away, letting your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking is a game changer. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even juicier and more flavorful.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making the crispiest, juiciest air fryer chicken thighs your family will rave about!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these amazing air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re serving up:

Serving Size: 1 thigh
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 27g

This chicken is packed with protein and flavor while being lighter than traditional fried options. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the guilt!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I hear:

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they might need a slightly shorter cooking time, so check for that golden brown color and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy texture!

What dipping sauces pair well?

Oh, the sauce options are endless! I love serving these chicken thighs with a classic ranch or honey mustard. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy buffalo sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce. Each dip adds a new layer of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly!

Can I make these gluten-free?

You sure can! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re all set. Just make sure to check that your buttermilk and other ingredients are also gluten-free. Enjoy every bite without worry!

How can I make them spicier?

If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk with some hot sauce mixed in for an extra kick. It’s a delicious way to spice things up!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel confident about making your air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious air fryer boneless skinless fried chicken thighs ready to serve, let’s talk about what to pair them with! Here are some fantastic side dishes and sauces that make for the perfect meal:

Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken. It’s a traditional favorite that everyone loves!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a match made in heaven with fried chicken. You can’t go wrong with this comfort food staple.
Macaroni and Cheese: A rich and cheesy mac adds a fun twist to your meal. Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds!
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier side, toss some seasonal veggies with olive oil and roast them until tender. It’s a great way to add color and nutrients to your plate.
Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for drizzling over your chicken or using as a dip. It adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Barbecue Sauce: A classic choice! Whether you prefer tangy or sweet, barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with fried chicken. You can even mix in some hot sauce for a spicy kick!

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or occasion. No matter what you choose, these sides and sauces will elevate your air fryer chicken thighs to the next level of deliciousness!