9 Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Recipes For Lazy Dinners

9 Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Recipes For Lazy Dinners are your new best friend when weeknights get hectic and you’re craving something delicious without the hassle. Chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and forgiving when it comes to cooking—especially in the air fryer. With minimal prep and maximum taste, these recipes are ideal for those evenings when you want a home-cooked meal but can’t be bothered with piles of dishes or complex instructions. Whether you’re feeding your family or flying solo, these simple ideas will help you serve up crispy, tender chicken with barely any effort.

From zesty garlic herb thighs to spicy honey-glazed bites, this listicle delivers variety without complexity. Most of these recipes call for pantry staples and take under 30 minutes from start to finish. That means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time unwinding. No matter your flavor preference—sweet, savory, spicy, or all three—these air fryer chicken thigh recipes make lazy dinners not just easy, but something to look forward to. Dive in, pick your favorite, and let your air fryer do the work while you take the credit.

BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs

BBQ glazed chicken thighs are a simple and tasty option for a lazy dinner. With a rich and tangy barbecue sauce, they deliver that finger-licking flavor everyone loves. Plus, making them in the air fryer means you can achieve that perfectly crispy skin without the fuss of traditional frying.

This recipe is not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor. The air fryer locks in the juiciness while giving the chicken a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Serve them alongside a fresh coleslaw for a complete meal that requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, brush the barbecue sauce over the thighs and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Crispy Garlic Herb Chicken Thighs

Crispy Garlic Herb Chicken Thighs are a simple and delicious option for a lazy dinner. With a delightful crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness inside, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs brings a burst of flavor that elevates the dish without requiring too much effort.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Just season the chicken, pop it in the air fryer, and enjoy a tasty meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Buffalo Chicken Thighs with Blue Cheese Dip

Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty dinner. With their crispy exterior and spicy, tangy sauce, they bring a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up in your air fryer, making them perfect for those lazy weeknights.

Pair these delicious thighs with a creamy blue cheese dip, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and enjoyable. The cooling effect of the dip balances the heat of the buffalo sauce, creating a well-rounded dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup blue cheese dressing
• Celery sticks for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs with this mixture.
3. Add the buffalo sauce to the chicken and toss until well-coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks on the side.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs with Asparagus

Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs with Asparagus is a delicious dish that perfectly balances zesty flavors and savory goodness. The tender chicken thighs are seasoned with a bright lemony pepper blend, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. Tossed with asparagus, this recipe brings together simplicity and taste, making it a great option for those lazy dinner nights.

This meal comes together quickly, thanks to the air fryer, which cooks the chicken and vegetables to perfection without needing much hands-on time. Perfectly juicy and bursting with flavor, it’s a delightful addition to your weeknight menu.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 lemon, sliced for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt. Add chicken thighs and coat them evenly with the marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes.
4. After 15 minutes, add the asparagus to the basket around the chicken. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the asparagus is tender.
5. Serve the chicken garnished with lemon slices and enjoy!

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a delightful and simple dish bursting with flavor. The combination of fresh lime juice and fragrant cilantro gives the chicken a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with its juicy texture. Perfect for those lazy dinner nights, this recipe requires minimal prep and can be cooked quickly in an air fryer for a crispy finish.

Making this dish is a breeze! Simply marinate the chicken thighs in a cilantro-lime mixture, then let your air fryer do the hard work. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress with its vibrant taste.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken thighs in the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place in the air fryer basket, skin side up.
5. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Spicy Honey Soy Marinade Chicken Thighs

This spicy honey soy marinade recipe brings a wonderful blend of sweetness and heat to chicken thighs. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully while cooking, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for those lazy dinner nights.

The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, savory taste that pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. With minimal prep and a quick cook time in the air fryer, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your spicy honey soy chicken thighs with your favorite side!

Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers

These Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a perfect choice for a lazy dinner. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the rich teriyaki sauce, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy that crispy exterior without the fuss of frying.

The best part? These skewers come together in no time, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Just marinate, thread onto skewers, and let the air fryer do the work!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger. Add chicken chunks and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Skewers: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the skewers from the air fryer and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Italian Herb Marinated Chicken Thighs

This recipe for Italian Herb Marinated Chicken Thighs is a simple way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table without the fuss. Marinated in a delightful blend of herbs, these chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect choice for a lazy evening meal.

The marinade creates a savory crust while keeping the meat moist, resulting in a satisfying dish that pairs well with roasted veggies or a fresh salad. Plus, cooking in an air fryer makes everything super easy and quick!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on or skinless
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over, and coat well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired, and enjoy your flavorful chicken!

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Olives

These Mediterranean chicken thighs are a delightful mix of savory and tangy flavors. With juicy chicken, briny olives, and aromatic herbs, this dish is both simple to make and packed with taste. It’s a great option for busy nights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The air fryer makes cooking these thighs a breeze, providing a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender inside. Pair them with some couscous or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Add Olives: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the Kalamata olives over the chicken thighs.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Final thoughts

Lazy dinners don’t have to mean boring food. With these nine air fryer chicken thigh recipes, you can enjoy crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold flavors without breaking a sweat. Perfect for busy nights, last-minute cravings, or simply giving yourself a break, these recipes prove that good food doesn’t always require hard work. So go ahead—save this list, experiment with the flavors, and let these easy dinners become your go-to favorites.