How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer: A Comprehensive Guide
I remember the first time I cooked frozen chicken thighs in my air fryer. I was so excited to try this new appliance, but I had no idea what I was doing. I just threw the chicken thighs in the basket and hoped for the best.
To my surprise, the chicken thighs came out perfectly cooked! They were juicy and tender, and the skin was crispy. I was so happy with the results that I’ve been cooking chicken thighs in my air fryer ever since.
Freezing Chicken Thighs
Frozen chicken thighs are a great option for quick and easy meals. They’re typically less expensive than fresh chicken, and they can be cooked from frozen without thawing. However, it’s important to cook frozen chicken thighs properly to ensure that they’re safe to eat.
Cooking Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer:
Air Fryer Cooking Time and Temperature
- Frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 20-25 minutes at 380°F
- Frozen bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: 25-30 minutes at 380°F
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
- Place the frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
- Cook the chicken thighs for the amount of time specified in the chart above, or until they are cooked through.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Cooking Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will prevent the chicken thighs from cooking evenly.
- Shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure that the chicken thighs cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help them to retain their juices.
Benefits of Cooking Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
There are many benefits to cooking frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer. Some of the benefits include:
- It’s quick and easy. Air fryers are a great way to cook chicken thighs quickly and easily. You don’t have to thaw the chicken thighs before cooking them, and they cook in a fraction of the time it takes to bake or grill them.
- It’s healthy. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, which means that they don’t require any added oil. This makes air-fried chicken thighs a healthier option than fried chicken.
- It’s delicious. Air-fried chicken thighs are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They’re a great way to enjoy chicken without feeling guilty.
FAQs About Cooking Frozen Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about cooking frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer:
- Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in my air fryer without thawing them?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in your air fryer without thawing them. However, it will take a few minutes longer to cook them. - How long do I cook frozen chicken thighs in my air fryer?
The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken thighs. However, as a general rule, you should cook frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs for 20-25 minutes at 380°F, and frozen bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes at 380°F. - How do I know when the chicken thighs are cooked through?
The chicken thighs are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer.
Conclusion
Cooking frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy chicken. If you’re looking for a delicious and convenient way to cook chicken, give air frying a try.
Are you interested in learning more about how to cook frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer? Let me know in the comments below!
