Savor the simplicity and bold flavors of Whole30 Air Fried Lean Chicken Thighs, a healthy and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Featuring boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned with a robust blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and a touch of sea salt and black pepper, this recipe delivers a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior—all without added sugars or preservatives. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer in just 20 minutes, these chicken thighs make adhering to your Whole30 goals effortless while keeping your taste buds delighted. Ideal for pairing with roasted veggies or a vibrant salad, this guilt-free dish is packed with flavor and incredible texture, all while being quick, clean, and keto-friendly.
Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick and allow the skin to crisp up nicely.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
Toss the chicken thighs in the spice mixture until they are evenly coated on all sides.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes, as this will ensure even cooking and help the thighs crisp up.
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure there is space between each piece to allow the air to circulate properly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
Air fry the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juices.
Serve the chicken thighs with your choice of Whole30-compliant sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Calories |
1106 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.5 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.1 g | 80% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 500 mg | 167% | |
| Sodium | 2683 mg | 117% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 6.6 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 105.3 g | 211% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 88 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1080 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.