Top 27 Bone-in Chicken Thigh Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Cooking bone-in chicken thighs in an air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve juicy, flavorful results with a crispy exterior. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation ensures even cooking and allows for minimal oil usage compared to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, exploring various bone-in chicken thigh recipes in the air fryer can elevate your culinary skills and satisfy your taste buds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 27 bone-in chicken thigh air fryer recipes that promise succulent, perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Top 27 Bone-in Chicken Thigh Air Fryer Recipes

1. Classic Crispy Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub them with olive oil.
3. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Place the seasoned thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the thighs are evenly coated.
3. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
6. Flip the thighs, brush with any remaining marinade, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

3. Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the thighs are well coated.
3. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
5. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and shake off any excess.
6. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
7. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve with additional lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

4. Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and sprinkle them with Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Place the seasoned thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
4. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste before serving.

5. Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the teriyaki marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

6. BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and ranch dressing.
4. Coat the chicken thighs with the BBQ ranch mixture.
5. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
6. Flip the thighs, brush with more BBQ ranch mixture, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

7. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub them with the Parmesan mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

8. Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix together buffalo sauce and melted butter.
4. Coat the chicken thighs with the buffalo sauce mixture.
5. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
6. Flip the thighs, brush with more buffalo sauce mixture, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
7. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

9. Pesto Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ¼ cup pesto sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Spread pesto sauce evenly over the chicken thighs.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
6. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves before serving.

10. Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine lemon zest, olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
3. Rub the lemon pepper mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

11. Orange Glazed Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Orange slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together orange zest, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with orange slices before serving.

12. Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the olive oil mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

13. Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme before serving.

14. Sweet And Sour Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pineapple chunks and sliced bell peppers for serving
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Serve with pineapple chunks and sliced bell peppers, garnished with sesame seeds.

15. Italian Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup Italian dressing
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together Italian dressing, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Serve sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

16. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub them with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

17. Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

18. Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.

19. Chipotle Lime Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

20. Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and salt.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

21. Smoky Paprika Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the paprika mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

22. Thai Peanut Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro before serving.

23. Jerk Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and jerk seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
4. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
5. Serve with lime wedges and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

24. Greek Lemon Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Reserve the marinade for later use.
5. Cook the thighs for 10 minutes, then brush them with the reserved marinade.
6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

25. Rosemary Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic rosemary mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

26. Herb Crusted Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, chopped fresh herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and coat them with the herb breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken.

27. Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mustard glaze over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, and cook for 12 minutes.
5. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking bone-in chicken thighs in an air fryer offers endless possibilities for creating delicious and satisfying meals. From classic crispy chicken thighs to exotic flavor combinations like Thai peanut or coconut curry, the air fryer allows you to explore a wide range of culinary options without sacrificing taste or texture. Experiment with different marinades, seasonings, and cooking times to customize these recipes to your liking. With these top 27 bone-in chicken thigh air fryer recipes at your disposal, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your culinary prowess while enjoying juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

Top 10 Global Flavors

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without sacrificing taste or texture. These countertop appliances use hot air circulation to crisp up food, resulting in perfectly cooked dishes with less oil and fat.

When it comes to bone-in chicken thighs, the air fryer is an excellent tool for achieving juicy, tender meat with crispy skin. Whether you prefer classic seasonings or bold international flavors, the air fryer can handle it all with ease.

1. Classic BBQ Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ½ cup barbecue sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Brush barbecue sauce over the chicken thighs.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Marinate chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, discarding excess marinade.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

3. Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh thyme leaves.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat them with the lemon herb mixture.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

4. Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.

5. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the Parmesan mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.

6. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush the honey mustard mixture over the chicken thighs.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and glazed.

7. Indian Tandoori Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine plain yogurt, tandoori masala, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt.
2. Marinate chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, shaking off excess marinade.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is charred and cooked through.

8. Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken thighs with the lemon garlic mixture.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

9. Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and brown sugar.
2. Add sliced bell pepper and onion to the coconut curry mixture.
3. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
4. Pour the coconut curry mixture over the chicken thighs and vegetables.
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

10. Mexican Chipotle Lime Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• Zest and juice of 2 limes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together minced chipotle peppers, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the chipotle lime mixture over the chicken thighs.
3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

One of my favorite bone-in chicken thigh air fryer recipes is the Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the juicy chicken thighs. Plus, the crispy skin adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. This recipe is simple to prepare yet incredibly delicious, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer ensures that it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking, resulting in evenly cooked and crispy food.

2. Use Oil Sparingly

While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating of oil can enhance flavor and crispiness. Use a spray bottle or brush to apply oil evenly to your ingredients.

3. Avoid Overcrowding The Basket

For best results, arrange your food in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy results.

4. Flip And Shake

Halfway through the cooking process, flip or shake your food to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides. This step is especially important for foods with a high moisture content, such as chicken thighs.

5. Monitor Temperature And Cooking Time

Keep an eye on your food as it cooks, adjusting the temperature and cooking time as needed to prevent burning or undercooking. Invest in a good quality meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken thighs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Experiment With Seasonings And Marinades

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavors! Experiment with different seasonings, spices, and marinades to customize your bone-in chicken thigh recipes to your liking.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

1. Meal Prep In Advance

Spend some time prepping your ingredients and marinating your chicken thighs ahead of time. This will save you time during busy weekdays and ensure that you have flavorful meals ready to cook in your air fryer.

2. Batch Cooking

Cooking multiple servings of chicken thighs at once allows you to have leftovers for future meals. Simply store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat as needed for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

3. Use Pre-Made Sauces And Marinades

Save time by using store-bought sauces and marinades to flavor your chicken thighs. There are plenty of options available, ranging from barbecue sauce to curry paste, that can add delicious flavor with minimal effort.

4. Opt For Bone-In Chicken Thighs

Bone-in chicken thighs are not only more flavorful than boneless cuts but also cook more evenly in the air fryer. Plus, they’re often more affordable, making them a budget-friendly option for busy cooks.

Conclusion

Bone-in chicken thigh air fryer recipes offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy flavorful meals with minimal effort. From classic barbecue to exotic international flavors, there’s no shortage of options to explore. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create juicy, tender chicken thighs with crispy skin that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the air fryer is a versatile tool that can help you create mouthwatering dishes with ease. So fire up your air fryer and start cooking up some delicious bone-in chicken thigh recipes today!