Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Thighs —  If you’re searching for a hassle-free yet incredibly juicy and flavorful turkey thigh recipe, you’re in the right place. Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey that’ll leave your taste buds dancing with delight. 

Below, we will share our mouthwatering recipe for Juicy Turkey Thighs.

Turkey thighs are known for their succulence; when cooked in the air fryer, they become even more delectable. We’ve perfected a simple method to ensure you get the juiciest, most tender turkey thighs packed with flavor. So, get ready to elevate your turkey game to a whole new level, whether it’s a special holiday meal or a weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

They make a great alternative to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or if you don’t want to cook a whole bird.

Can You Cook Turkey Thighs In Air Fryer?

​Yes, you can absolutely cook turkey thighs in an air fryer! Air frying turkey thighs is a fantastic way to achieve juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked meat with a crispy exterior. It’s a convenient and efficient method that can be used for various turkey thigh recipes, making it a popular choice for many home cooks.

Whether preparing a special holiday feast or a quick weeknight dinner, the air fryer can deliver fantastic results when cooking turkey thighs.

If you want even more dinner recipes, check out my Air Fryer Recipe for Hamburgers, Crispy Pork Chops, or even a Simple Air Fryer Shake and Bake Pork Chop Dinner.

You can have dinner on the table with only a few key ingredients. I used a simple spice rub and seasoned up the turkey thighs.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

These simple ingredients are all you need to make delicious air fryer turkey thighs that are juicy and crispy on the outside. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information. 

• Turkey Thighs: This recipe requires bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs. Turkey thighs are known for their rich flavor and tenderness.
• Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps crisp up the skin and moisten the turkey during cooking.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavor of the turkey and add a savory element.
• Herbs and Spices (Optional): You can customize the flavor of your turkey thighs by adding herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or thyme.
• Cooking Spray (Optional): Cooking spray can coat the air fryer basket to prevent sticking lightly.

How To Cook Turkey Thighs In Air Fryer

You can make the best air fryer turkey things recipe in minutes with a few simple steps.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C, for 3-5 minutes. This ensures that it’s hot and ready when you’re ready to cook the turkey thighs.

Prepare the Turkey Thighs: Add your herbs or seasoning mix in a small bowl. Pat the turkey skin dry with paper towels to remove any extra moisture. This helps to achieve crispy skin. Season the turkey thighs with a drizzle of olive oil, and rub the seasonings evenly over the turkey.

Place in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place turkey thighs in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure there’s some space between them for even cooking. For delicious crispy skin, place the chicken thighs skin side down.

Air Fry: Slide the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook the turkey thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on their size and thickness. Halfway through cooking, flip the turkey thighs using tongs for even browning.

Check for Doneness: To ensure the turkey is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer or instant meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Rest and Serve: Once the turkey thighs are perfect, remove them from the air fryer and rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to be redistributed, keeping the meat juicy. Slice or serve whole, and enjoy your air-fried turkey thighs!

Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the turkey thighs and your air fryer’s specific settings. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption.

Check the internal temperature of the turkey thighs when the meat thermometer reads 175 degrees F.

Pro Tips For Cooking Turkey Thighs In Air Fryer

Cooking turkey thighs in an air fryer can yield delicious results. Here are some pro tips to ensure your turkey thighs come out perfectly:

• Season Generously: Seasoning is key to flavorful turkey. Don’t be shy with your favorite herbs, spices, dry rub, and seasonings. Marinate the turkey thighs beforehand or apply the seasonings just before cooking.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating is essential to achieving crispy skin. Ensure your air fryer is preheated to the recommended temperature before placing the turkey thighs inside.
• Use Oil Sparingly: Turkey thighs have natural fats that will render during cooking, helping to keep the meat moist. You can lightly brush or spray them with olive oil to promote browning and crispiness. Be careful not to overdo it to avoid excess oil in the air fryer.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Turkey thigh size and thickness can vary. Keep a close eye on them as they cook, and consider flipping them halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Use a meat or instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature of your turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
• Air Fryer Basket Placement: Arrange the turkey thighs in a single layer with some space between them to allow air circulation. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
• Basting (Optional): To add extra flavor and moisture, you can baste the turkey thighs with a flavorful liquid (e.g., chicken broth, melted butter, or marinade) during cooking.
• Rest Before Serving: After air frying, let the turkey thighs rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This helps retain their juiciness as the meat relaxes.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your seasonings. You can try different spice blends, herbs, or marinades to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Clean the Air Fryer Basket: Turkey thighs may release some fat during cooking, which can accumulate in the air fryer basket. Cleaning the basket between batches can prevent smoking and maintain air circulation.
• Safety First: Always follow food safety guidelines. Ensure that your turkey thighs reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy succulent and flavorful air-fried turkey thighs that are perfect for any occasion.

Can You Cook Turkey Thighs In Ninja Foodi?

​Yes, you can cook turkey thighs in a Ninja Foodi. The Ninja Foodi is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines a pressure cooker, air fryer, and other functions in one device. To cook turkey thighs in a Ninja Foodi, you can use the air fryer function, which is excellent for achieving crispy skin while retaining moisture inside the meat. Here’s a basic guide on how to do it:

• Preheat your Ninja Foodi by selecting the Air Crisp function and setting the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the Foodi is hot and ready for cooking.
• While the Foodi is preheating, prepare your turkey thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels, and season them with your preferred spices and herbs. You can use a simple seasoning like salt, pepper, garlic, and garlic powder or get creative with your favorite seasonings.
• Once the Ninja Foodi is preheated, lightly brush the turkey thighs with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray. This helps promote crispiness during air frying.
• Place the seasoned turkey thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them for proper air circulation.
• Close the lid of the Ninja Foodi, select the Air Crisp function again, and set the cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your turkey thighs. As a general guideline, set the cooking time to 20-30 minutes. However, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thighs reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Check the turkey thighs periodically, and if needed, flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
• Once the turkey thighs have reached the desired internal temperature and have a crispy exterior, remove them from the Ninja Foodi.
• Allow the turkey thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices for a juicier, more tender result.
• Serve your air-fried turkey thighs with your favorite sides, and enjoy!

Remember that the exact cooking time may vary based on the size and thickness of the turkey thighs and your specific Ninja Foodi model, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

How To Cook Frozen Turkey Thighs In Air Fryer​

Cooking frozen turkey thighs in an air fryer is a convenient way to prepare a meal without the need for thawing. Here’s how to do it:​

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the air fryer is hot and ready for cooking.
• While the air fryer is preheating, remove the frozen turkey thighs from their packaging. Pat them dry with paper towels.
• Brush the turkey thighs with a thin layer of olive oil or spray them with cooking spray. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
• Season the turkey thighs with your choice of seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Place the seasoned frozen turkey thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket, as it can affect the cooking process.
• Close the air fryer basket or drawer and set the cooking time. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the frozen turkey thighs. As a general guideline, cook them for about 30-40 minutes.
• About halfway through the cooking time, flip the turkey thighs to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey thighs. They are safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size of the turkey thighs and your specific air fryer model.
• Once the turkey thighs reach the desired temperature and have a crispy exterior, remove them from the air fryer.
• Allow the turkey thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier and more tender result.
• Serve your air-fried frozen turkey thighs with your preferred side dishes, and enjoy your meal.

Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey thighs are thoroughly cooked and safe to eat. Cooking times may vary, so adjust as needed based on the specific size and thickness of your turkey thighs.

FAQ Air Fried Turkey Thighs

How long does it take to cook turkey thighs in an air fryer? 

Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the turkey thighs and the specific air fryer model. Generally, the cooking time is about 20-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). However, using a meat thermometer is essential to ensure the thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How can I prevent my turkey thighs from drying out in the air fryer? 

Marinate the turkey thighs before cooking to add flavor and moisture to avoid dryness. You can lightly brush or spray them with olive oil to promote crispiness while retaining moisture. Avoid overcooking, and use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.

Can I cook bone-in turkey thighs in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook bone-in turkey thighs in the air fryer. Just be aware that bone-in thighs may take longer to cook than boneless ones. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) near the bone’s thickest part.

What seasonings work well with air-fried turkey thighs?

Seasonings are versatile and can include a variety of herbs, spices, and marinades. Common choices include garlic powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, oregano, cumin, and poultry seasoning. You can customize the flavors to your preference.

Can I cook multiple turkey thighs at once in the air fryer? 

Yes, you can cook multiple turkey thighs in the air fryer, but avoid overcrowding. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each thigh to allow for proper air circulation. If necessary, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.

What sides go well with air-fried turkey thighs? 

Air-fried turkey thighs pair well with various side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salad, gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, and stuffing. You can choose sides that complement your preferred flavors and create a complete meal.

Can I use a boneless turkey thigh recipe for bone-in turkey thighs in the air fryer? 

You can adapt a boneless turkey thigh recipe for bone-in thighs in the air fryer, but remember that bone-in thighs may require slightly longer cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.

Can I reheat leftover air-fried turkey thighs in the air fryer? 

Yes, you can reheat leftover air-fried turkey thighs in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to a lower temperature (around 325°F or 160°C) and reheat the thighs until they reach your desired serving temperature.

How should I store leftover air-fried turkey thighs? 

Store leftover turkey thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat following proper food safety guidelines.

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