How Long to Cook Turkey Thighs in an Air Fryer for Perfectly Juicy Results

As air fryers continue to grow in popularity, more and more home cooks are discovering how convenient they are for making quick, delicious meals. One of my favorite things to make in the air fryer is juicy, flavorful turkey thighs. But to get the best results, it’s important to know exactly how long to cook turkey thighs in an air fryer.

In this article, I’ll provide a complete guide on air frying times for boneless and bone-in turkey thighs. You’ll learn how to ensure your turkey thighs come out tender and moist on the inside with crispy, golden skin on the outside. I’ll also share my tips for the best seasonings and recipes to take your air fried turkey flavors to the next level.

Why Cook Turkey Thighs in an Air Fryer?

There are several benefits to using an air fryer for cooking turkey thighs:

• It’s faster – Turkey thighs cook much quicker in the air fryer compared to roasting in the oven. You can have juicy, delicious turkey thighs on the dinner table in less than 30 minutes.

• Makes crispier skin – The hot circulating air crisps up and browns the turkey skin beautifully without needing to add any oil.

• Retains moisture – The quick cook time means the turkey doesn’t dry out. The thighs come out super juicy and tender.

• Adds flavor – The circulating air really locks in seasoning and marinades, infusing the turkey with lots of flavor.

• Healthier – With no need for added fats or oils, air frying is a healthier cooking method.

How Long to Cook Boneless Turkey Thighs

Boneless turkey thighs are the quickest and easiest to cook in the air fryer. Here are general guidelines for air frying boneless thighs:

• 1 pound of boneless thighs – Cook at 380°F for 15-18 minutes
• 1.5 pounds boneless thighs – Cook at 380°F for 18-22 minutes
• 2 pounds boneless thighs – Cook at 380°F for 22-25 minutes

The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the thickness of the individual thighs. I always rely on an instant-read thermometer to test for doneness instead of just cooking time The thighs are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F

If the turkey isn’t quite done when you check the temperature, simply place it back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes more until it reaches 165°F. And remember to let the thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How Long to Cook Bone-In Turkey Thighs

Bone-in turkey thighs take a little longer to cook than boneless since the bone acts as an insulator Here are the approximate air fryer cook times

• 1 pound bone-in thighs – Cook at 380°F for 18-20 minutes
• 1.5 pounds bone-in thighs – Cook at 380°F for 22-25 minutes
• 2 pounds bone-in thighs – Cook at 380°F for 28-32 minutes

The same rules apply with bone-in thighs – always check temperature and let them rest before eating. I find 185°F is the ideal internal temp for juicy, tender bone-in thighs when they come out of the air fryer.

Tips for the Best Air Fried Turkey Thighs

Follow these simple tips for air fryer turkey thighs that come out perfectly cook and full of flavor every time:

• Pat the thighs dry – Blotting excess moisture with paper towels before cooking helps achieve crispy skin.

• Use a light coat of oil – Brushing or spraying a small amount of oil on the thighs promotes even browning.

• Season generously – Flavorings like garlic, thyme, paprika, salt and pepper really shine.

• Cook in a single layer – Avoid overcrowding for the best texture. Flip halfway through cooking.

• Use an instant-read thermometer – This avoids under or overcooking. Check in a meaty part of thigh.

• Let rest before serving – 5 to 10 minutes of resting allows juices to redistribute for a moist interior.

Delicious Air Fryer Turkey Thigh Recipes

One of the great things about cooking turkey thighs in an air fryer is that they pair well with so many flavors. Here are some of my favorite air fryer turkey thigh recipes to try:

Simple Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

• Season with olive oil, salt, garlic, thyme, oregano, and black pepper
• Air fry at 380°F for 18-22 minutes until 165°F

BBQ Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

• Toss thighs in your favorite barbecue sauce
• Air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, brushing with more sauce halfway

Air Fryer Jerk Turkey

• Marinate thighs 1-2 hours in Jamaican jerk seasoning
• Air fry at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked

Air Fryer Honey Sriracha Turkey Thighs

• Brush with spicy sriracha honey glaze
• Air fry at 380°F for 18-20 minutes

Air Fryer Greek Turkey Thighs

• Season with lemon, garlic, oregano, olive oil
• Air fry at 400°F for 20-22 minutes

Get Perfectly Cooked Thighs Every Time

Mastering air fryer times is the key to impossibly tender, juicy turkey thighs with deliciously crispy skin. Follow the guidelines in this article for the ideal air frying temperature and cook times based on the weight and bone status of your turkey thighs.

I recommend starting with boneless thighs to get comfortable with your air fryer if you’re new to it. And be sure to always use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness instead of relying solely on cook times.

Once you’ve nailed down the basic air fry method, you can start experimenting with fun new seasonings and marinades. Enjoy your easy, foolproof air fried turkey thighs!