#1 Bold Tasting Skinless Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

When it comes to preparing delicious and healthy meals, skinless chicken thighs are a versatile choice that’s easy to cook and packed with flavor. Using an air fryer, you can achieve perfectly crispy yet juicy chicken thighs without the excess oil or mess of traditional frying methods.

This recipe for bold-tasting chicken thighs in an air fryer combines a mix of smoky, sweet, and savory spices for a meal that will leave your taste buds craving more.

This was inspired by my other chicken thigh recipe on this site but with bold flavors like my salmon bowl recipe.

Jump to:

• 💖 Why You'll Love This Bold Flavored Skinless Chicken Thigh Recipe
• 🥣 Ingredients Bold & Flavorful Chicken Thighs
• 👩‍🍳 Directions For Air Fryer Skinless Chicken Thighs
• 🩺 Health Benefits of This Skinless Chicken Thigh Recipe
• 🥗 Recipe Key Nutrients
• 🥘 Why Cook Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?
• 🧡 Learn How to Make Bold Flavored Skinless Chicken Thighs
• 📖 Recipe
• ⭐️ Pro Nutrition Tip
• 💙 Substitutions
• 🥚 Healthy Food Swaps Guide
• 🍴 Variations
• 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• ❄️ Storage
• Meal Prep Tip
• 🍳 Equipment
• My favorite multi-cooker!
• 🤔 ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions
• Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs?
• Do I Need to Marinate the Chicken?
• Can I Double the Recipe?
• 😀 Enjoy This Bold-Tasting Skinless Chicken Thighs Recipe!
• ❤️ You Might Also Love These
• 🤲 Pairing
• 💬 Comments

🥣 Ingredients Bold & Flavorful Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need to create this bold and delicious dish made with skinless chicken thighs.

1. Chicken Thighs - I love to switch things up and use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. However, these skinless chicken thighs also works well with chicken breasts.
2. Brown Sugar - I used a coconut brown sugar in the recipe, but regular brown sugar is perfect too. If you don't have either on hand, swap with maple syrup or even honey.
3. Olive Oil - This is a great neutral flavored oil. You can also use avocado oil.
4. Spices - I used a blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt.

See the recipe card for quantities.

👩‍🍳 Directions For Air Fryer Skinless Chicken Thighs

Cooking bold-tasting chicken thighs in an air fryer is simple and straightforward. With just a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a healthy and flavorful meal on the table in no time. Follow these steps for foolproof results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

In a small bowl, mix together the coconut brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground thyme, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. This spice blend will infuse the skinless chicken thighs with layers of bold flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Thighs

Place the skinless chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the spice mix over the thighs, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the seasoning.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

🩺 Health Benefits of This Skinless Chicken Thigh Recipe

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great protein choice for a healthy diet. They’re more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts while still being lower in fat when compared to other cuts. Plus, they’re a fantastic source of nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which are essential for overall wellness.

Each ingredient in this recipe was chosen not just for flavor but also for its nutritional value. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional benefits of this bold flavored skinless chicken thighs recipe.

• Chicken Thighs - A great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They also provide iron and zinc, which support immune function and energy levels.
• Olive Oil - Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil helps reduce inflammation and supports cardiovascular health.
• Coconut Brown Sugar - A natural sweetener that adds a touch of sweetness while providing trace minerals like potassium and magnesium.
• Chili Powder & Smoked Paprika - Rich in antioxidants, these spices boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Ground Thyme & Oregano - Both herbs are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, and their antimicrobial properties support gut health.
• Cumin & Garlic Powder - Known for aiding digestion and boosting immune health, these spices also enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

Key Nutrients in This Recipe

This recipe is not only flavorful but also nutrient-dense. Here are some key nutrients provided by the ingredients.

• Protein - The chicken thighs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body functions.
• Iron - Found in chicken thighs, iron supports oxygen transport in the blood and boosts energy levels.
• Zinc - Important for immune health and wound healing, provided by both chicken thighs and spices like cumin.
• Healthy Fats - Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidants - Spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano are packed with antioxidants, which combat free radicals and promote cellular health.
• Vitamin A - Present in smoked paprika and chili powder, vitamin A supports vision and immune function.
• Magnesium - Coconut brown sugar adds trace amounts of magnesium, essential for muscle and nerve function.

🥘 Why Cook Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?

Cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer is a game-changer for busy weeknights or meal prep. The air fryer uses rapid air circulation to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender—all without the need for deep frying. This method is:

• Healthier - Requires minimal oil, reducing overall calories.
• Faster - Cuts cooking time compared to oven roasting or grilling.
• Convenient - Easy cleanup and consistent results every time.

🧡 Learn How to Make Bold Flavored Skinless Chicken Thighs

Learn how easy it is to make skinless chicken thighs in an air fryer. With a bold flavored spice blend you will enjoy the delicious flavors in this recipe.

📖 Recipe

💙 Substitutions

Making a delicious skinless chicken thighs recipe is a personal preference in terms of dietary needs. Check out some easy substitutions and variations to customize this recipe to your liking.

• Brown Sugar Alternatives - Swap coconut brown sugar for honey, maple syrup, or regular brown sugar.
• Oil Options - Use avocado oil or melted ghee instead of olive oil for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Variations - Customize the spice mix with coriander, turmeric, or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Herb Substitutes - Replace oregano with Italian seasoning, parsley, or fresh basil.

🍴 Variations

Here are a few variations for my healthy skinless chicken thigh recipe.

• Make it Spicier - Add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the spice blend.
• Sweeten It Up - Use honey or maple syrup in place of coconut brown sugar.
• Herbal Twist - Swap dried oregano for Italian seasoning or fresh rosemary.
• Protein Options - This spice mix works well on bone-in chicken thighs or even drumsticks.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair these bold skinless chicken thighs with a variety of sides to complete your meal.

• Gut-Healthy Slaw - A crunchy cabbage slaw with apple cider vinegar and Greek yogurt dressing.
• Roasted Veggies - Toss Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes in olive oil and roast them alongside the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad - A refreshing mix of quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh parsley.

❄️ Storage

Refrigerator - If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat Options:

• Air Fryer - Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Microwave - Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Oven - Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Feel free to double the recipe if you have a larger family or want extras.

🍳 Equipment

The equipment you use can make or break a recipe. For this dish, I recommend the Ninja Combi All-In-One Multi-Cooker Oven, which combines air frying, baking, and roasting functions in one appliance. Its consistent heating ensures perfectly cooked chicken thighs every time.

If you don’t have this specific model, you can still make this recipe with a standard air fryer. Adjustments to cooking time or temperature may be necessary depending on your appliance. For best results, consult your air fryer’s manual for specific guidelines.

Want to try the Ninja Combi All-In-One Multi-Cooker Oven? Click below to purchase it.

🤔 ⁉️ FAQ - Common Questions

😀 Enjoy This Bold-Tasting Skinless Chicken Thighs Recipe!

This recipe for bold-tasting skinless chicken thighs made in an airfryer is an excellent way to enjoy a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make meal. Using your air fryer takes the hassle out of cooking while delivering amazing results. Try it tonight and watch it become a family favorite!

I hope you guys love this recipe! If you make it, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think! And if you post to Instagram, I repost your remakes of your creations on my IG stories!

I would also love to hear what you think, or take a photo and tag me @EatYourNutrition on Instagram. I love seeing your photos. #EatYourNutrition #LauraVillanueva

❤️ You Might Also Love These

Looking for other chicken recipes like this? Try these:

🤲 Pairing

These are my favorite recipes to serve with this chicken thigh recipe:

Are You Interested in More Meal Prep Recipes?

If you’re interested in trying new meal prep recipes or would like some tips on how to eat healthy, check out this great guide today.

Meal Prep for Creating Healthy Balanced Meals Guide is the key to your success when you have health and wellness goals.

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