Fast, flavorful, and family-friendly, these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a great addition to any dinner table. Serve with a tasty side for an easy meal the whole family will love.
Why You’re Going To Love Them
- Fast. Get juicy and tender boneless chicken thighs in less than 30 minutes .
- Easy. Marinate the chicken thighs in some flavorful ingredients and then pop them in the air fryer . No special steps are needed.
- Budget-friendly. Chicken thighs are an affordable cut of meat, but when prepared the proper way, they taste far from cheap.
- Delicious. The marinade and crispy skin make for a tasty bite that the whole family will adore.
Can You Put Raw Chicken In The Air Fryer?
If you’re new to using your air fryer, welcome to the club! I promise you’re going to love it here. Many new users are skeptical of cooking raw chicken in the air fryer.
I can assure you that if you cook your chicken thoroughly and wash your air fryer basket after using it, the air circulating inside of your air fryer will not pose any kind of health concern.
Are you not crazy about extra clean-up from any drippings that may come off your air fryer chicken thighs? You can roast them in any heat-safe dish that easily fits inside your air fryer basket to make cleaning a breeze.
What Kind Of Thighs Are Best In The Air Fryer?
Honestly, they’re all tasty! Depending on how you intend to serve them, how much time you have, and what you have in your refrigerator are the only things stopping you from choosing bone-in chicken breasts from boneless chicken breasts.
The only difference you’ll notice is the cooking time. We’ll discuss that a little more below.
How Long Do You Air Fry Chicken Thighs?
If you choose boneless chicken thighs, you should expect them to take around 15 minutes to cook completely.
For bone-in chicken thighs, allow closer to 30 minutes for them to cook through.
Of course, you should always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs before serving them. They should reach 165F at the thickest part of the boneless chicken breast, or 165F close to the bone if you are using bone-in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Thighs. You can choose boneless or bone-in. Simply adjust the cooking times according to the recipe below.
- Soy Sauce. I prefer the low sodium version to use in a marinade.
- Pepper.
- Garlic. You can mince your own for more flavor, or use the pre-minced garlic in a jar or squeeze tube.
- Rosemary. Fresh rosemary will give the most flavor to these juicy chicken thighs.
- Olive Oil. Helps crisp up the skin when it’s cooked in the air fryer.
- Lemon Juice. Just a touch to finish and give some acidity to the dish.
How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Prepare the marinade. Mix together soy sauce, pepper, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and olive oil in a large bowl, reserving a third of it in a separate bowl to use for basting.
- Let them absorb the flavor. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the larger amount of sauce, cover, and place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer. Allow your air fryer to preheat to 400 degrees and place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry and baste. Air fry the chicken tenders for 7-8 minutes and flip them over. Use a basting brush to cover both sides of the chicken thighs with the sauce that was not used for the marinade.
- Finish cooking and rest. Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure it has reached 165F. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
Tips And Tricks
- Give them space. To allow even cooking, place the chicken thighs in a single layer in your air fryer basket without bunching them together. Depending on the size of your chicken thighs and which type of air fryer you have, you should be able to air fry between 4 and 6 at a time.
- Prep ahead of time. If you know you have a busy evening ahead of you, you can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
- Freeze ’em up. Oops! Did you make too many? No problem. You can store these chicken thighs flat in a freezer-safe container and they will stay tasty for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, allow them to defrost completely and toss them back in your air fryer at 400F for 4-6 minutes or until they are warmed through.
What To Serve With Them
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are far from bland, but they are seasoned with spices that work well with a variety of different cuisines. Because of this, they are great for meal prep to add to your favorite dishes or can easily stand alone with a side dish or two for a complete dinner.
Here are some of my favorite things to pair them with:
- Cheesy Potatoes
- Instant Pot Rice
- Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
- Keto Broccoli Salad
How Long Do They Last?
As I mentioned earlier, this recipe is great for meal prep. However, for the best and safest bite, try to enjoy these roasted chicken thighs within 4 days of preparing them.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- Air Fryer Potato Wedges
- Tandoori Chicken
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- ▢ 6 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- ▢ 1 cup low sodium soy sauce
- ▢ 2 tbsp Minced Garlic
- ▢ 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ 1/2 Lemon
- ▢ 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- ▢ 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary
Instructions
Mix together soy sauce, pepper, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and olive oil in a large bowl, reserving a third of it in a separate bowl to use for basting.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the larger amount of sauce, cover, and place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Allow your air fryer to preheat to 400 degrees and place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
Air fry the chicken tenders for 7-8 minutes and flip them over. Use a basting brush to cover both sides of the chicken thighs with the sauce that was not used for the marinade.
Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure it has reached 165F. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
For bone-in chicken thighs, increase the cooking time to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F.
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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 6 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 1 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 Lemon
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary
Instructions
Mix together soy sauce, pepper, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and olive oil in a large bowl, reserving a third of it in a separate bowl to use for basting.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the larger amount of sauce, cover, and place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
Allow your air fryer to preheat to 400 degrees and place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
Air fry the chicken tenders for 7-8 minutes and flip them over. Use a basting brush to cover both sides of the chicken thighs with the sauce that was not used for the marinade.
Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure it has reached 165F. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
For bone-in chicken thighs, increase the cooking time to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs https://twosleevers.com/air-fryer-chicken-thighs/
Fish en Papillote is a French-style baked fish dish made with fish fillets steamed in parchment packets with butter, lemon, garlic, and vegetables. It’s quick and weeknight-friendly and works well for a light, low-carb dinner with minimal cleanup. Unlike pan-seared fish that can dry out or stick to the skillet, this version gently steams the fish in a sealed parchment packet so it stays flaky and moist, plus you get a built-in sauce and easy portioning.
Why You’ll Love This Parchment Packet Fish Recipe
The clean-up is so minimal with this recipe that it makes me want to cook it even more often. Eat it as a stand-alone dish, or serve it with rice to make an even more well-rounded dish.
Obviously, you can choose the veggies that are cooked with this, but keep in mind that sturdier vegetables like broccoli may not cook in the amount of time the fish needs to cook. You don’t want to overcook the fish, because it will dry out.
You can also vary the fish that you use, although you may need to test cooking times if you use thicker pieces than what you see in my picture.
Why You Should Use Parchment Paper To Cook Fish
The parchment paper does four things.
First, it seals in the moisture so the fish can cook and still keep in all the amazing juice to keep the fish light and fluffy, and the veggies flavorful.
Second, it makes clean-up so simple. The parchment paper keeps all the mess together so it’s just lifted and done.
Third, it contains the seafood odors better than if you’d just cooked fish and vegetables on the stovetop for example.
But the other neat thing is watching your guests open the packets of food. It’s a mini Christmas because here you are, with a fragrant, steaming packet of SOMETHING–but you don’t know what it is until you open it! This fourth benefit of cooking this way is my favorite part of using parchment paper packets.
I love serving this fish en papillote still wrapped in parchment paper, and then watching as people open it to discover their little portion of perfectly cooked fish, steaming vegetables and a light broth at the bottom of the packet.
What Does It Taste Like?
Air Fryer Fish en Papillote has a light, delicate, and beautifully balanced flavor that’s both fresh and comforting. The fish itself turns out incredibly tender and moist, almost buttery in texture, as it gently steams inside the parchment packet.
The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy freshness that cuts through the richness of the butter, while the tarragon infuses the fish with subtle, aromatic notes that feel elegant and refined. The vegetables, like carrots, fennel, and red peppers, soften as they cook, releasing a touch of natural sweetness that mingles with the savory juices of the fish.
Every bite tastes clean and flavorful, with a perfect harmony of buttery richness, citrus brightness, and herbaceous freshness, making it a dish that feels both healthy and indulgent.
Is It Healthy?
Yes, Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a very healthy dish. It’s naturally low in calories and high in lean protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.
Because the fish is cooked in parchment paper, it steams in its own juices along with fresh vegetables and herbs, requiring very little added fat or oil. This gentle cooking method preserves nutrients, moisture, and flavor without the need for breading or frying.
The addition of ingredients like carrots, fennel, and red peppers boosts the vitamin and fiber content, while a touch of olive oil and butter provides healthy fats for flavor and satiety.
Overall, this dish is heart-friendly, nutrient-dense, and light. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 Cod Fillets - The centerpiece of the dish. Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks gently inside the parchment packet, absorbing the steam and flavors from the vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. The parchment method keeps the fish moist and tender while concentrating its natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup Julienned Carrots - Add a subtle sweetness, color, and a bit of texture contrast. 1/2 cup Julienned Fennel Bulbs - Contribute a mild, anise-like flavor that enhances the freshness of the dish. Fennel gives a slightly aromatic sweetness. 1/2 cup Thinly Sliced Red Peppers - Add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and moisture. They soften while cooking, infusing the fish with a touch of mild, peppery flavor.
- 2 Sprigs Tarragon - Lends a delicate, licorice-like flavor that pairs beautifully with white fish.
- 2 Pats Melted Butter - Provides richness and a velvety mouthfeel, coating the fish and vegetables as they steam.
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juic - Adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter and balancing the mild flavor of the cod.
- 1 Tablespoon Oil - Lightly coats the parchment and vegetables to prevent sticking and adds a touch of richness.
- 1 Tablespoon Salt - Essential for enhancing the natural sweetness of the fish and vegetables.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper - Adds gentle spice and depth to balance the delicate flavors of the dish.
How To Make Fish En Papillote
- Make the sauce and season the veggies. In a medium bowl combine melted butter, tarragon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and lemon juice. Mix well until you get a creamy sauce. Add the julienned vegetables and mix well. Set aside.
- Prepare parchment. Cut two squares of parchment large enough to hold the fish and vegetables.
- Add oil and season. Spray the fish fillets with oil and apply salt and pepper to both sides of the fillets.
- Layer ingredients. Lay one filet down on each parchment square. Top each fillet with half the vegetables. Pour any remaining sauce over the vegetables.
- Close the parchment packs. Fold over the parchment paper and crimp the sides to hold fish, veggies and sauce securely inside the packet. Place the packets inside the airfryer basket.
- Air fry and enjoy! Set your airfryer to 350F for 15 minutes. Remove each packet to a plate and open just before serving.
Tips And Tricks
Making Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy tender, flavorful fish with minimal effort. To ensure your fish comes out perfectly moist, aromatic, and beautifully cooked every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
- Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Fish . Start with fresh or fully thawed fish fillets for even cooking. Frozen fish can release excess water and affect the texture.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly . Slice your vegetables thinly and evenly (julienne style) so they cook through at the same rate as the fish.
- Preheat the Air Fryer . Preheating helps the parchment packets puff up quickly, creating steam that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Don’t Overfill the Packet . Keep portions moderate. Use one fillet and a small handful of vegetables per packet to allow steam to circulate and cook everything evenly.
Variations
Here are some delicious and creative ways to customize your Air Fryer Fish en Papillote, each adding a unique twist to the delicate, flavorful base recipe:
- Mediterranean Style - Add cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, and a sprinkle of oregano. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and crumbled feta cheese for a bright, savory twist.
- Asian-Inspired - Replace lemon juice with soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil. Add julienned ginger, green onions, and bok choy for a fragrant, umami-rich version.
- Spicy Cajun Fish - Season the fish with Cajun spice blend or smoked paprika, and add a few slices of jalapeño or bell pepper for a kick of heat and bold flavor.
What To Eat With Fish En Papillote
Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a light, elegant dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Since the fish is delicately flavored with herbs, citrus, and vegetables, the best accompaniments are those that complement its freshness without overpowering it. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside your fish:
- Asparagus - Its tender, slightly crisp texture pairs perfectly with the buttery, lemony fish.
- Garlic Butter Rice - A simple side that absorbs the flavorful juices from the fish when you open the parchment packet.
- Herb Couscous or Quinoa - Light and fluffy grains flavored with fresh herbs, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon add a Mediterranean touch.
How Long Does It Last?
Fish en Papillote is best enjoyed fresh, right after cooking, when the fish is moist, tender, and infused with the aromatic steam from the herbs and vegetables.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to discard the parchment paper and let the fish cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.
When reheating, do so gently in the air fryer at 325°F for 5–6 minutes or in the oven to maintain its delicate texture.
Can You Freeze It?
While it’s technically safe to freeze cooked fish en papillote, freezing is not recommended because the vegetables can become mushy and the fish may lose its soft, flaky texture after thawing.
En papillote is a French cooking term that means “in paper”—specifically, food (often fish en papillote) is wrapped in a parchment packet and cooked so it gently steams in its own juices. In an air fryer fish en papillote setup, the sealed packet traps moisture, aromatics like lemon and herbs, and a little butter/olive oil, which helps the fish turn out flaky and moist with minimal cleanup. It’s basically a built-in steam oven in a neat little parcel.
The best fish for fish en papillote is one that cooks quickly and stays tender with gentle steaming. Salmon is a top pick because it stays moist and flavorful, while mild white fish like cod, halibut, sea bass, or tilapia also work beautifully with lemon, garlic, and herbs in a parchment packet. Aim for evenly thick fillets (about 1 inch is ideal) so the fish finishes at the same time as your vegetables, and use doneness cues to avoid overcooking.
Want MoreAir Fryer Recipes?
- Air Fryer Zucchini
- Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
- French Toast
- Keto Shrimp Scampi
- Air Fryer Mushrooms
- Fish Nuggets
Fish en Papillote | Air Fryer Fish in Parchment paper
Ingredients
- ▢ 2 5-oz ( 2 ) Cod Fillets , thawed
- ▢ 1/2 cup ( 64 g ) julienned carrots
- ▢ 1/2 cup ( 43.5 g ) julienned fennel bulbs , or 1/4 cup julienned celery
- ▢ 1/2 cup ( 74.5 g ) thinly sliced red peppers
- ▢ 2 ( 2 ) sprigs tarragon , or 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
- ▢ 2 pats ( 2 pats ) melted butter
- ▢ 1 tablespoon ( 1 tablespoon ) Lemon Juice
- ▢ 1 tablespoon ( 1 tablespoon ) Kosher Salt , divided
- ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ( 0.5 teaspoon ) Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ 1 tablespoon ( 1 tablespoon ) Oil
Instructions
- In a medium bowl combine melted butter, tarragon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and lemon juice. Mix well until you get a creamy sauce. Add the julienned vegetable and mix well. Set aside.
- Cut two squares of parchment large enough o hold the fish and vegetables.
- Spray the fish fillets with oil and apply salt and pepper to both sides of the fillets.
- Lay one filet down on each parchment square. Top each fillet with half the vegetables. Pour any remaining sauce over the vegetables.
- Fold over the parchment paper and crimp the sides to hold fish, veggies and sauce securely inside the packet. Place the packets inside the airfryer basket.
- Set your airfryer to 350F for 15 minutes. Remove each packet to a plate and open just before serving.
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And don’t forget to check out my air fryer cookbooks! Every day easy air fryer , and Air Fryer Revolution .
