Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick and tasty way to make juicy, crispy chicken with minimal effort. This recipe is all about getting that perfect balance between tenderness and crispiness, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Jamie has a way of turning simple ingredients into something delicious and with this recipe, he proves that you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to make a mouth-watering dish. The best part? You can skip the mess of deep frying but still get that golden, crispy skin.
What makes this recipe stand out is the seasoning. it’s simple yet packed with flavor. The chicken thighs are marinated (or just seasoned if you’re in a rush), then cooked in the air fryer for a few minutes, leaving you with perfectly cooked, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat inside.
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, you won’t need a shopping cart full of ingredients. The recipe focuses on simple pantry staples that pack a punch:
- Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – The star of the show. You’ll want bone-in, skin-on thighs for that crispy, flavorful skin and juicy meat. If you opt for boneless thighs, you might need to adjust the cooking time.
- Olive Oil – A good drizzle to help with crisping up the skin and to bind the spices.
- Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and depth to the flavor.
- Garlic Powder – For a little savory kick. Garlic powder works better here than fresh garlic because it won’t burn during the air frying process.
- Dried Oregano – This herb brings a fresh, earthy undertone to the chicken.
- Lemon Zest – A zing of freshness that lifts all the flavors.
- Salt and Black Pepper. The essential seasonings to bring it all together.
That’s it! Nothing too complicated. Just a handful of ingredients that’ll make your chicken thighs taste amazing.
Equipment Needed
This recipe is super low-tech and doesn’t require much beyond your standard kitchen gear. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Air Fryer – The real game changer here. The air fryer crisps up the skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy, so if you don’t have one, it’s time to invest. You’ll want a model that fits your chicken thighs comfortably, so you may need to cook in batches depending on the size.
- Mixing Bowl – To season the chicken and get it all coated evenly.
- Tongs or a Spoon. To handle the chicken without making a mess.
- Measuring Spoons – For precise seasoning.
The great thing about this recipe is you don’t need fancy gadgets or a bunch of pans. The air fryer and a few basic tools are enough to make a dinner everyone will love.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Now that you’ve got everything prepped, let’s dive into how to actually make these chicken thighs.
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Prep The Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy skin, so don’t skip it. Once dry, place them in a mixing bowl.
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Season
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re all coated. Sprinkle in paprika, garlic powder, oregano, lemon zest, salt and black pepper. Toss the chicken thighs in the seasoning, massaging it in so the flavors get into every crevice of the skin.
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Preheat The Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C) and let it preheat for a couple of minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, just run it for 3-5 minutes before you add the chicken.
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Cook The Chicken
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the chicken thighs in the basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them to ensure the air circulates properly. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to get that even crispiness on both sides.
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Check For Doneness
Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check or simply cut into the thickest part of the thigh and ensure the juices run clear.
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Serve And Enjoy
Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat extra moist.
What I Learnt
Cooking with an air fryer is a game changer, especially for something like chicken thighs. I always thought you needed an oven or stove for perfect crispy skin but the air fryer does it with so much less oil and time. It doesn’t heat up your kitchen the way an oven does which is a bonus during warmer months.
The key to this recipe is not overcomplicating things. The seasoning is simple but gives the chicken a fantastic flavor.It’s also forgiving.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Jamie Oliver’s recipe for air fryer chicken thighs is already delicious but there’s always room to get a bit creative. Here are some tweaks to make the recipe your own:
- Spice it Up: If you love a kick, consider adding chili powder or smoked paprika to the seasoning. A dash of cayenne pepper can bring the heat or add chili flakes for that spicy crunch. If you’re into citrusy tang, some lemon zest or lime juice can elevate the flavor profile.
- Herb Mix: Jamie’s recipe usually calls for basic herbs but try switching things up with thyme, rosemary or even fresh sage. A pinch of oregano or basil can also give the dish an Italian vibe. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a little tarragon or parsley at the end for that fresh herb punch.
- Marinade Magic: For even juicier chicken thighs, marinate them for a few hours (or even overnight). A mix of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice and a bit of olive oil works wonders for tenderizing the meat and adding flavor. A dash of soy sauce or honey gives a sweet and salty kick!
- Breadcrumb Coating: For an extra crispy finish, you can coat the chicken thighs in breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. This gives a golden, crunchy texture to the outside while keeping the inside moist. If you’re going gluten-free, use crushed almonds or rice crumbs for a nutty twist.
- Seasoned Butter: If you love rich, buttery flavors, melt a bit of butter and mix in herbs, garlic and a pinch of salt. Brush this onto the chicken thighs before or after cooking for a glossy finish and an added layer of flavor.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
We all love a good leftover and chicken thighs are no exception! Here’s how to keep your air fryer chicken thighs fresh for the next day (or two):
- Cool It Down: Don’t store the chicken when it’s still hot. Let it cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the texture from getting soggy.
- Airtight Containers: Use an airtight container to store the chicken. This helps preserve the moisture and keeps it from drying out. If you have multiple thighs, wrap them tightly in foil or parchment paper before placing them in a container.
- Fridge Time: Leftover chicken thighs can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Any longer and the texture may start to change and you risk the chicken becoming dry.
- Freezing: If you want to save your leftovers for a longer period, freeze them! Place the chicken thighs in a freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat your chicken thighs in the air fryer again for a few minutes to crisp them back up. You can also warm them in the oven at a low temperature, covered with foil to prevent them from drying out.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are versatile and can pair with so many sides. Here are some ideas to complement the crispy, juicy chicken:
- Salads: A fresh salad works wonderfully with the rich flavors of chicken. Try a simple green salad with arugula, spinach and mixed herbs, dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. You can also go for a more substantial salad like a quinoa or couscous salad with roasted veggies, feta and olives.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts or carrots make a fantastic pairing. The earthiness of roasted veggies balances the savory chicken and they’re easy to pop in the oven while the chicken cooks.
- Rice Dishes: Serve the chicken with rice, couscous or even a grain like farro. Try a lemon and parsley rice or add some toasted almonds and dried cranberries for a Middle Eastern twist. A fragrant pilaf or a wild rice blend adds depth.
- Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes are always a winner with chicken. If you’re after something lighter, try a simple potato salad with mustard and fresh herbs.
- Sauces and Dips: A creamy garlic aioli or a tangy tzatziki can add some extra zing. You could also make a chimichurri or a fresh tomato salsa to drizzle over the top for a fresh, zesty hit.
- Grilled Vegetables: On a summer day, grilled corn on the cob, zucchini and bell peppers make an excellent choice. Their charred, smoky flavor will complement the crispy chicken thighs nicely.
FAQs
How Long Do You Cook Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer?
Jamie Oliver recommends cooking chicken thighs in the air fryer for about 25-30 minutes at 200°C, flipping halfway through.
Do I Need To Season The Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes! You should season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Jamie uses a mix of garlic, paprika, and herbs for added flavor.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead Of Bone-in?
Definitely! Boneless thighs will cook faster-around 20-25 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
