If you’re wondering how long to cook chicken thighs in air fryer at 350, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will give you the perfect timing for juicy, crispy chicken thighs every single time.
Air fryers are fantastic for cooking chicken thighs. They use hot air to crisp the skin beautifully while keeping the dark meat incredibly tender. Cooking at 350°F is a sweet spot—it’s hot enough to cook the chicken through and render fat, but not so hot that the outside burns before the inside is done. Let’s get into the details so you can make a fantastic meal.
How Long To Cook Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer At 350
The simple answer is 20 to 25 minutes. But several factors can change that time. The size of the thighs, whether they have skin and bones, and if they are fresh or frozen all play a part.
Here’s a quick reference guide:
- Bone-in, Skin-on Thighs: 22-25 minutes
- Boneless, Skinless Thighs: 18-22 minutes
- Frozen Bone-in Thighs: 28-32 minutes (no need to thaw first)
- Frozen Boneless Thighs: 24-28 minutes
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part, not touching the bone.
Why 350 Degrees is the Ideal Temperature
You might see recipes for higher temps, like 400°F. So why choose 350? It gives the fat under the skin more time to slowly render and baste the meat. This leads to a super crispy exterior and a moist, flavorful interior. It’s also more forgiving, reducing the chance of overcooking the outside before the inside is safe to eat.
If your air fryer runs hot (many do), starting at 350 is a safe bet. You can always add a few more minutes if needed.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect air fryer chicken thighs.
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken Thighs
Pat the thighs completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret to getting crispy skin. If they are wet, they will steam instead of crisp. Then, season them generously. You can use just salt and pepper, or a dry rub of your choice. A little oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning, but it’s not always necessary because of the thighs’ natural fat.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer (If Recommended)
Check your air fryer’s manual. Many models recommend a 3-5 minute preheat for best results. If you’re cooking from frozen, you can usually skip preheating.
Step 3: Arrange in the Basket
Place the thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd them. There should be a little space between each piece for air to circulate. If they are too crowded, they won’t get crispy. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 4: Cook and Check
Set the temperature to 350°F. For average bone-in, skin-on thighs, set the timer for 22 minutes. At the halfway point, open the basket and flip the thighs. This ensures even cooking on both sides. Check the temperature at the 20-minute mark with a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once they hit 165°F, remove them from the basket. Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more juicy.
Essential Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t Skip the Dry Brine: For even more flavor and crispier skin, season your thighs with salt and let them sit in the fridge on a rack for 1-4 hours before cooking.
- Use a Thermometer: Guessing leads to dry or undercooked chicken. A instant-read thermometer is your best tool in the kitchen.
- Spray Lightly: If you want extra crunch, a very light spritz of oil on the skin before cooking can help. But don’t overdo it.
- Beware of Smoke: Chicken thighs have a lot of fat that will drip. Placing a little water or bread in the bottom drawer (if your model has one) can reduce smoking.
Flavor and Seasoning Ideas
The basic method is just the start. Here are some easy ways to change up the flavor:
- Classic BBQ: Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Lemon Herb: Toss with olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
- Spicy Dry Rub: Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Teriyaki Glaze: Brush with teriyaki sauce in the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Avoid these pitfalls:
- Overcrowding the Basket: This is the number one reason for soggy, unevenly cooked chicken.
- Not Patting Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Skipping the Flip: Flipping ensures the skin crisps evenly and the chicken cooks through.
- Not Checking Temperature: Cooking by time alone is unreliable because chicken thigh sizes vary so much.
FAQ Section
Do I need to flip chicken thighs in the air fryer?
Yes, it’s a good idea to flip them halfway through the cooking time. This gives you crispy skin on all sides and ensures even cooking.
Can I put frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer?
You absolutely can. You do not need to thaw them first. Just add 6-8 extra minutes to the cooking time, and always check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
Why are my air fryer chicken thighs not crispy?
The most likely cause is not drying the skin thoroughly before seasoning. Another common cause is overcrowding the air fryer basket, which creates steam.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken thighs?
Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. This will bring back the crispiness much better than a microwave, which can make them rubbery.
Can I cook other chicken parts at 350°F?
Yes, you can. Chicken breasts (boneless) will take about 15-18 minutes. Drumsticks take about 22-25 minutes, similar to thighs. Wings take about 20-22 minutes, shaken halfway.
Serving Suggestions
Your perfectly cooked chicken thighs deserve great sides. Here are a few easy ideas:
- Simple steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the juices.
- A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts (you can often cook these in the air fryer after the chicken).
- Mashed potatoes or a creamy coleslaw for a comforting meal.
Cooking chicken thighs in your air fryer at 350°F is a reliable, easy way to get a delicious dinner on the table. The key is to remember the 20-25 minute range, always check the temperature, and never overcrowd the basket. With a little practice, you’ll find the exact timing that works best for your air fryer model and your prefered level of crispiness. Once you master this basic technique, you can experiment with countless seasonings and sauces to keep your meals interesting and flavorful.