Cooking chicken thighs from frozen can be a game-changer when you’re short on time but still want a flavorful, juicy meal. The air fryer makes it incredibly easy to cook frozen chicken thighs to perfection, giving you crispy skin and tender meat in less time than traditional oven baking. I love how this recipe delivers that perfect balance of convenience and taste. Plus, there’s no need to thaw the chicken ahead of time, so it’s perfect for those moments when you forget to plan dinner!
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to take frozen chicken thighs and transform them into a mouthwatering meal with just a few simple steps. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting by circulating hot air around the chicken, locking in moisture, and ensuring the skin is beautifully crisped. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable and easy way to make frozen chicken thighs your go-to dish.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Frozen Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are known for being flavorful and juicy, and they hold up wonderfully in the air fryer. Whether you’re using bone-in or boneless thighs, this recipe works equally well. I prefer bone-in for the extra juiciness, but boneless thighs cook faster if you’re in a hurry.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil is key to ensuring that the chicken skin gets nice and crispy. It also helps seasonings adhere to the chicken, adding extra flavor to the dish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings an irresistible savory element to the chicken, giving it a depth of flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the meat.
Paprika: Paprika adds both color and a mild smokiness to the chicken. It’s perfect for balancing out the other spices and giving the chicken that golden, crispy finish.
Salt: Salt is essential for bringing out all the flavors of the chicken. You can adjust the amount to your taste, but I recommend using a generous pinch to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor with a subtle kick. It complements the other seasonings and helps balance the richness of the chicken thighs.
Ingredients List
- 4 frozen chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Frozen Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Thighs
First, take the frozen chicken thighs straight from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them! Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Then, drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the chicken thighs. This will help the seasonings stick and ensure the skin gets crispy during cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them on all sides. The oil will help the spices adhere, creating a flavorful crust as they cook.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps ensure the chicken thighs cook evenly and get that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Thighs
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate properly. Air fry the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure an even cook. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when done. The skin should be golden and crispy, while the inside remains juicy and tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken thighs are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat extra tender.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use bone-in thighs: Bone-in chicken thighs are often more flavorful and juicy compared to boneless thighs. However, boneless thighs cook a bit faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Ensure there’s enough space between the chicken thighs in the air fryer to allow the hot air to circulate around them for that perfect crispiness.
- Check the internal temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices! Add some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or lemon zest for a burst of freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs work great, but they’ll cook faster than bone-in thighs. Check them at the 20-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Do I need to thaw the chicken thighs before cooking?
No, you can cook frozen chicken thighs directly in the air fryer without thawing them. Just ensure they’re seasoned properly and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I cook other frozen chicken parts in the air fryer?
Absolutely! You can cook frozen chicken breasts, wings, or drumsticks in the air fryer using similar methods. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of chicken.
How do I store leftover chicken thighs?
Store any leftover cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain their crispiness.