Short Answer:

To cook bone-in chicken thighs in an air fryer, start by seasoning or marinating them for flavor. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.

Place the thighs in a single layer, skin side up, and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving for juiciness and tenderness.

Detailed Explanation:

Cooking Bone-In Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer

Bone-in chicken thighs are flavorful and juicy, making them ideal for air frying. Proper preparation and cooking technique ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender.

1. Preparation and Seasoning

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin crisp during air frying. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices or herbs. Alternatively, marinate the thighs for 30 minutes to a few hours to enhance flavor and moisture. Lightly brush or spray oil on the skin for extra crispiness.

2. Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheating the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) ensures the chicken cooks evenly from the start. Preheating prevents undercooking and helps the skin become golden and crisp.

3. Arranging Chicken in the Basket

Place the bone-in thighs in a single layer with space between each piece to allow hot air circulation. Skin side up is recommended for a crispy top. Avoid overcrowding the basket, which can cause uneven cooking.

4. Cooking Time and Flipping

Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through to ensure even browning on all sides. Cooking time may vary depending on thigh size and air fryer model, so monitor closely. Bone-in thighs generally take slightly longer than boneless cuts.

5. Checking Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safety while keeping the meat juicy.

6. Resting After Cooking

Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after air frying. Resting allows juices to redistribute inside the meat, preventing dryness and enhancing tenderness. Serve immediately after resting for the best texture.

7. Optional Tips

• Lightly brushing oil on the skin improves crispiness.
• Seasoning under the skin enhances flavor penetration.
• If cooking multiple batches, preheat again before adding the next batch for consistent results.

Conclusion:

Cooking bone-in chicken thighs in an air fryer involves proper preparation, seasoning or marination, preheating, and monitoring cooking time. Placing thighs skin side up in a single layer and checking internal temperature ensures juicy, tender meat with a crispy exterior. Resting the chicken after cooking maximizes juiciness, resulting in perfectly air-fried bone-in thighs every time.