Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Crispy, spicy, and downright irresistible—these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs bring the heat with every bite! Juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, they’re coated in tangy buffalo sauce for the ultimate flavor punch. Whether you’re making them for game day, a quick dinner, or just a craving, these chicken thighs are a must-try!

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy! Cooking them in the air fryer ensures golden, crunchy skin while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

Tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, these chicken thighs pack a bold kick and are perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or anytime you’re craving something deliciously spicy. Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing, alongside celery and carrot sticks, for a classic and satisfying meal. Best of all, they’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them a quick and easy favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Skin, Juicy Inside – Perfectly crisp exterior with tender, flavorful meat.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Bold Buffalo Flavor – Spicy, tangy, and packed with classic buffalo heat.
• Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for dinner, game day, or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken thighs – Juicy, tender, and flavorful cut
• Buffalo sauce – Spicy, tangy, and bold flavor
• Butter – Adds richness and smooth texture
• Garlic powder – Boosts savory, garlicky taste
• Salt – Enhances overall seasoning and flavor

Recipe Variations

• Boneless Chicken Thighs – Cooks faster and is easier to eat.
• Bone-In Chicken Thighs – Extra juicy with a richer flavor.
• Honey Buffalo Glaze – Add honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Ranch-Seasoned Buffalo Thighs – Mix in dry ranch seasoning for extra zest.
• Extra Crispy Coating – Toss in panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
• BBQ Buffalo Blend – Mix buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.

How To Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Step One: Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F (193°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures crispy skin.

Step Two: In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Lightly coat them with oil for extra crispiness. Place the thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set cook time for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step Three: In a separate bowl, toss the cooked thighs in warmed buffalo sauce until fully coated. Garnish with chopped parsley, serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing, and enjoy the spicy, crispy goodness!

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry – Removing excess moisture ensures crispy, golden skin.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Cook in a single layer for even crispiness.
• Flip Halfway Through – This helps cook the chicken evenly on both sides.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Toss in Sauce After Cooking – Prevents the sauce from burning in the air fryer.
• Adjust Spice Level – Add more or less buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy hot for the best flavor and texture!

Storing

• Storing: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

What To Serve With Buffalo Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Thighs pair perfectly with a variety of sides to balance the spicy heat. Serve them alongside creamy coleslaw, crispy fries, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.

A cool dip, like blue cheese or ranch dressing, can help tone down the heat while complementing the flavors. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad or some steamed broccoli to add freshness to the dish

Buffalo Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe? Yes! Boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of bone-in thighs. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked, typically around 15-18 minutes.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy? To achieve a crispier texture, lightly coat the chicken with oil before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking in the air fryer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prep the chicken ahead by seasoning it and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to marinate and makes for a quicker cook time.

What kind of buffalo sauce should I use? Any store-bought or homemade buffalo sauce will work. Choose your favorite for the perfect level of heat and flavor.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken? Yes, you can freeze cooked buffalo chicken thighs. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, use the air fryer for 8-10 minutes to crisp them back up.

How can I make this recipe spicier? To increase the heat, add more hot sauce or include a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also drizzle extra buffalo sauce on top after cooking!

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER CHICKEN PARMESAN MEATBALLS
• AIR FRYER CHICKEN FRITTERS
• Easy AIR FRYER BUFFALO CHICKEN PULL-APART BREAD
• AIR FRYER COCA-COLA WINGS
• AIR FRYER COBB SALAD
• Easy AIR FRYER HABANERO AGAVE WINGS

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