Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

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Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer and enjoy crispy, juicy, and tender results in a few minutes. The ease and simplicity of the cooking process will amaze you. Every time the final results will be surprising and flavorful, a special treat for your taste buds.

Your whole family whether they are kids or adults, will love to eat air fryer frozen chicken thighs. Air fryer is my favorite kitchen appliance, it gives me delicious and juicy results every single time. You can enjoy Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer on any occasion or any time as a main dish. Believe me, they will never disappoint you.

Today you will explore how to cook frozen chicken thighs in air fryer, pro tips, serving suggestions, variations, and much more.

Why Make Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

The air fryer uses hot air to ensure a perfect balance of crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Say goodbye to dry and bland chicken thighs!
Air frying requires less oil compared to traditional frying methods, which makes it a healthier alternative for indulging in crispy chicken.
No need to wait for the oven to preheat. The air fryer gets hot in minutes, so it is an ideal choice for busy individuals who crave a quick and delicious meal.
Now you have no need to deal with splattered oil and greasy pans. Air fryer's easy-to-clean baskets and trays save you valuable time in the kitchen.
The beauty of air frying lies in its ability to cook frozen chicken thighs without thawing it. Perfect for those nights when you forget to defrost dinner!

Recipe Ingredients

Frozen Chicken Thighs - 4

Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
Salt - 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
Paprika - 1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder - 1 teaspoon
Onion Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
Dried Thyme - 1/2 teaspoon
Dried Rosemary - 1/2 teaspoon

Required Tools

Air Fryer
Bowl
Brush
Paper Towels
Cooking Thermometer
Kitchen Tongs

How To Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

● Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.

● Prepare the Chicken: Pat the thawed chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

● Coat with Olive Oil: Place the chicken thighs in a bowl and coat them thoroughly with the olive oil.

● Create Seasoning Blend: In a separate bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to create a seasoning blend.

● Sprinkle and Rub: Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken thighs and rub to ensure an even coating on all sides. Make sure to massage the blend into the chicken for maximum flavor.

● Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the seasoned and rubbed chicken thighs in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for optimal air circulation.

● Air Fry: Cook the chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on your air fryer model and thigh size.

● Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the skin is golden and crispy.

● Serve Hot: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Pro Recipe Tips

Before applying the olive oil and seasoning blend, make sure to pat the chicken thighs completely dry. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Ensure an even coating of olive oil on each chicken thigh. This creates a base that provides crispiness and enhances the adherence to the seasoning blend.
Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken thighs. This step helps to achieve uniform browning and crispiness on both sides.
To guarantee the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a cooking thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

● Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives over your air-fried chicken thighs just before serving.

● Serve with wedges of lemon on the side. A squeeze of lemon over the crispy chicken thighs adds a tangy flavor to your dish.

● Serve frozen chicken thighs in air fryer with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or tzatziki to boost the flavors.

● Pair with Air Fryer Red Potatoes and Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes for a unique serving experience.

● Serve frozen chicken thighs in air fryer with homemade pickles on the side. This will add a burst of tanginess to your meal.

Variations To Frozen Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

Marinate your chicken thighs in a tandoori spice blend and yogurt for a taste of Indian cuisine. Air fry for a deliciously spiced and tender result.
Toss your air fryer frozen chicken thighs in a zesty buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a Buffalo chicken experience.
Marinate your chicken thighs in teriyaki sauce before air frying. The savory-sweet teriyaki flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the chicken.
Combine fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of cumin to create a vibrant marinade for your chicken thighs. Air fry for a burst of citrusy and herby goodness.

Storing And Reheating

For storing, refrigerate your air-fried frozen chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you want longer storage, then freeze them individually in a freezer-friendly bag. After freezing, they can maintain their quality for up to 2-3 months.

For reheating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed or refrigerated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Reheat for 5-7 minutes or until they are hot and crispy again.

Related Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

Other Easy Air Fryer Recipes

How Long To Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer?

The cooking time for frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer typically ranges from 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check for doneness by using a cooking thermometer, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Is It OK to Put Frozen Chicken In The Air Fryer?

Yes, it's absolutely okay! The air fryer is designed to cook frozen foods efficiently. To achieve the best results, ensure the chicken thighs are evenly spaced in the air fryer basket and adjust the cooking time to accommodate the frozen state.

What's The Best Way To Season Frozen Chicken Thighs For Air Frying?

Start by coating the chicken with a layer of olive oil. Then, sprinkle a blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Adjust the seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs For This Recipe?

Absolutely! Whether boneless or bone-in, the air fryer handles both types well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

How Do I Prevent My Air-Fried Chicken Thighs From Becoming Too Dry?

To maintain juiciness, ensure not to overcook. Use a cooking thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).