Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

User Reviews

4.6

213 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    15 mins

  • Total Time

    25 mins

  • Servings

    4 Servings

  • Calories

    226 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    American

Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs are marinated with minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, avocado oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper before being cooked to a crisp in the air fryer. This method produces chicken thighs that maintain a tender interior with a flavorful, crispy crust. The air fryer cook time is carefully adjusted to reach doneness while allowing the skinless thighs to develop texture. It's a straightforward main dish suitable for pairing with various sides.

Description

This recipe features boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a mix of lemon juice and zest, garlic, and spices, providing a bright and garlicky flavor base. The use of avocado oil helps the thighs crisp when cooked in the air fryer. After marinating anywhere from 20 minutes up to 12 hours, the chicken is air fried at 375°F, flipping midway to ensure even crisping and thorough cooking.

The cooking process results in chicken that is juicy inside with a slightly crispy exterior despite the absence of skin. Cooking to an internal temperature around 185 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit achieves this texture balance. The thighs can be served as a protein main dish alongside vegetables, salads, or grains.

Leftover chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be reheated gently to maintain texture. Using an instant-read thermometer guarantees the chicken is safely cooked while maintaining the preferred crispness without overcooking.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 pound chicken thigh 4 thighs, boneless, skinless
  • 3 large garlic minced, cloves
  • 2 Tbsp avocado oil
  • lemon zest of 1
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Transfer the chicken thighs to a zip lock bag, along with the rest of the ingredients for the marinade.
  2. Seal the bag and shake it around until the thighs are all coated in the marinade.
  3. Marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator, but ideally for 1 to 12 hours.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375 degrees F for 3 to 5 minutes. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer with the rounded side down. Air fry for 14 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs and, air fry for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thighs. Chicken thighs are best when cooked to an internal temperature of 185 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Serve Lemon Garlic Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs as a main dish with your choice of side dishes, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes, but up to 12 hours, for stronger flavor infusion.
  • Cook thighs longer than the bare minimum internal temperature to develop a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches proper doneness (165°F minimum, ideally 185-200°F for texture).
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1Chicken Thigh Calories 226kcal (11%) Protein 24g (48%) Fat 14g (22%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4Servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 226 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1Chicken Thigh
Calories 226kcal 11%
Protein 24g 48%
Fat 14g 22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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User Reviews

Overall Rating

4.6

213 reviews
Excellent

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