Crispy Air Fryer Panko Boneless Chicken Thighs
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Embark on a culinary adventure with our recipe for Crispy Air Fryer Panko Boneless Chicken Thighs! This dish takes the classic comfort of boneless chicken thighs and elevates it to new heights with the magic of the air fryer. The combination of a golden, crispy panko coating and the tender juiciness of boneless chicken thighs creates a delightful symphony of textures, making this recipe a must-try for anyone seeking a quick and flavorful meal. Join us as we delve into the simple yet irresistible world of air-fried perfection!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE USING THE AIR FRYER TO MAKE CHICKEN THIGHS?
Using the air fryer to make chicken thighs offers both ease and enhanced flavor for a few reasons. Firstly, the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation cooks the chicken thighs quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This method eliminates the need for excessive oil, making it a healthier option without compromising on texture. Additionally, the air fryer’s design allows for consistent heat distribution, ensuring an even cook and a uniformly crispy panko coating. The result is a hassle-free cooking process that delivers irresistibly flavorful and crunchy boneless chicken thighs, making the air fryer an excellent tool for achieving a perfect balance between convenience and taste.
SIMPLE INGREDIENTS TO MAKE AIR FRYER CHICKEN THIGHS:
This combination of ingredients ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures, resulting in deliciously crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs:
- 6 Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): Opt for high-quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicy and succulent result.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Adjust according to personal taste preferences.
- ½ Cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise serves as a creamy and rich base, providing moisture and flavor to the chicken. It helps the flour and panko adhere, creating a delicious coating.
- 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard contributes a tangy and slightly spicy kick, elevating the overall flavor profile of the coating with its unique zesty notes.
- ½ Cup Flour: After being dipped in the mayonnaise and Dijon mixture, the chicken thighs are coated in flour, creating a smooth and dry surface for the subsequent panko coating.
- ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a light and crispy texture to the exterior of the chicken thighs, ensuring a delightful crunch when air-fried.
- 1 Tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder infuses the coating with savory and aromatic notes, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
- 1 Tsp Onion Powder: Onion powder contributes a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the other spices in the coating.
- 1 Tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich and smoky undertone to the coating, providing a delicious twist to the overall taste.
- ½ Tsp Salt: Additional salt to season the coating mixture and enhance the savory flavors.
- ¼ Tsp Black Pepper: Ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice to the coating, complementing the other spices.
- Olive Oil Non-Stick Cooking Spray: The olive oil non-stick cooking spray is used to lightly coat the chicken before air frying, promoting a golden and crispy finish without excess oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Panko Chicken Thighs?
Time needed: 30 minutes
- Ninja Air Fryer Recommendation:
The Ninja Air Fryer stands out as the best choice due to its spacious baskets, allowing users to effortlessly cook large quantities of food in a single batch. Its generous capacity not only saves time but also ensures an efficient and convenient air-frying experience for preparing meals for family gatherings or entertaining guests. You can see in the picture this is a well-loved machine in our house. My teenagers love the freedom and ease to cook and reheat a meal on their own.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. - Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Pat the boneless skinless chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. - Coat the Thighs:
In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well combined. Add the chicken thighs to the mayo and mustard mixture. Coat them well and set aside while you prepare the panko crust. - Prepare the Panko Dredge:
In a separate bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings. - Coat the Chicken:
Press each mayonnaise-coated chicken thigh into the flour/panko mixture, ensuring a thick and even coating of breadcrumbs. Spray with cooking spray, olive oil spray, or a little oil to help with developing the crispiness. - Air Fry the Chicken Thighs:
Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in a preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not crowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping, and cooking chicken for an additional 10 minutes. Continue to cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an internal meat thermometer to check the temperature. The total cooking time is about 20 minutes. - Air Fry until Golden Brown:
Once golden brown, remove the crispy air fryer chicken thighs from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel to soak any additional grease. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This chicken recipe is one the whole family will love.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
While boneless chicken thighs are often recommended for even cooking, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, tenders, or breasts. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Ensure the chicken is properly coated in the mayonnaise/Dijon mixture before dipping it in the panko mixture. Press the panko crumbs firmly onto the chicken to help them adhere, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
Yes, you can prepare the panko-crusted chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours. This can enhance the coating’s crispiness when air-fried. Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before air frying.
It’s recommended to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even and crispy coating on both sides.
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs or seasoned breadcrumbs if panko is not available. However, keep in mind that panko typically provides a lighter and crispier texture.
Pro Cooking Tips to Ensure Crispy Chicken Thigh Success:
There are many air fryer recipes on the internet but following these cooking tips are a great way to help you achieve the juiciest chicken thighs with a golden and crispy exterior.
- Properly Coat Chicken:
- Ensure each chicken thigh is evenly coated with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard before dredging in flour and panko breadcrumbs. This ensures a uniform and crispy coating.
- Press Panko/Flour Mixture Firmly:
- Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken thighs. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere well, creating a thick and crunchy crust for an irresistible texture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately upon placement, leading to a more evenly cooked and crispy result.
- Avoid Overcrowding:
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. This allows for proper air circulation, ensuring each piece cooks uniformly and achieves optimal crispiness.
- Monitor Cooking Time:
- Keep a close eye on cook time, as air fryers can vary. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Adjust the time as needed and avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken.
Which SIDE DISHES CAN BE SERVED with Air Fryer Chicken Recipes?
Complement the delectable crunch of air fryer panko chicken thighs with these favorite sides. Consider pairing them with a fresh and crisp salad such as the Green Goddess Salad tossed in a vinaigrette for a light contrast. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes add a flavorful and nutritious touch to the meal. For a heartier option, serve the chicken thighs alongside Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes or quinoa pilaf. Enhance the overall dining experience by offering dipping sauces like honey mustard or garlic aioli to enhance the panko coating. The versatility of air fryer panko chicken thighs allows you to tailor your sides and create a well-rounded and satisfying meal with amazing flavor.
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER CHICKEN THIGHS?
To store and reheat leftover air fryer panko chicken thighs, allow them to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and warm the chicken for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This ensures the chicken maintains its crispy exterior while reheating evenly. Enjoy the reheated panko-crusted chicken on its own or in wraps and salads for a quick and satisfying meal.
is this recipe freezer and reheat-friendly?
To freeze and reheat air fryer panko chicken thighs, start by allowing the cooked thighs to cool completely to room temperature. Place them in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once partially frozen, transfer the chicken thighs to airtight freezer bags or containers, ensuring they don’t stick together. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to reheat, preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C), place the frozen chicken thighs on a baking sheet or air fryer basket, and bake or air fry for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using the air fryer helps maintain the crispy panko coating, delivering a deliciously reheated meal with the same satisfying crunch. Allow the reheated chicken thighs to rest briefly before serving.
Looking for more Chicken recipes? Try These!
Creamy Tuscan Chicken: Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that marries the rich flavors of Tuscany with the indulgent creaminess of a velvety sauce. This dish is a symphony of tender chicken breast, aromatic garlic, sun-drenched tomatoes, and vibrant spinach, all bathed in a luxurious blend of cream, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard.
Marry Me Chicken Tortellini: Prepare to fall in love all over again with our Marry Me Chicken Tortellini an irresistible union of tender chicken, al dente pasta tortellini, and a luscious sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This delectable dish is a celebration of flavors, marrying the succulence of perfectly cooked chicken with the richness of a velvety tomato-infused sauce.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast: There’s nothing quite like a perfectly golden brown and crispy piece of chicken – especially when it’s highlighted with the bold yet welcome flavors of parmesan cheese! This recipe for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breast is a great addition to your meal repertoire.
Crispy Air Fryer Panko Boneless Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Ninja Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 6 Chicken Thighs (boneless skinless)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- ½ Cup Mayonnaise
- 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard
- ½ Cup Flour
- ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Tsp Onion Powder
- 1 Tsp Smoked Paprika
- ½ Tsp Salt
- ¼ Tsp Black Pepper
- Olive Oil Non-Stick Cooking Spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Season the Chicken Thighs: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well combined. Add the chicken thighs to the mayo and mustard mixture. Coat them well and set aside while you prepare the panko crust.
- Prepare the Panko Coating: In a separate bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Coat the Chicken Thighs: Press each mayonnaise-coated chicken thigh into the flour/panko mixture, ensuring a thick and even coating of breadcrumbs. Spray with cooking spray to help with crispiness.
- Air Fry the Chicken Thighs: Place the coated chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not crowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes and then flip the thighs over and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Continue to cook until they reach an internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and have reached your desired crispiness. Use an internal meat thermometer to check the temperature.
- Serve Hot: Once golden brown and crispy, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs or serve with your favorite dipping sauce. These crispy air fryer panko boneless chicken thighs are perfect as a main dish or sliced for salads and wraps.
- This recipe guarantees a delightful crunch and flavorful experience with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
Very easy to make and extremely tasty