Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Thighs, a culinary masterpiece, offer a fusion of zesty ranch flavor and the perfect balance of crispy exterior and moist interior. The journey begins with a buttermilk ranch seasoning, infusing each bone-in, skin-on chicken thigh with a depth of savory goodness.
The air fryer, transforms the chicken into perfection, crisping the outside to a golden brown while sealing in the juicy tenderness within. Garnished with fresh herbs or an extra sprinkle of ranch seasoning, these Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Thighs stand as a testament to the art of culinary delight—a dish that beckons for an extra piece or two, and a permanent spot on your meal rotation.
There are always new kitchen appliances on the market that I am often skeptical of the different products. You start to wonder which ones are worth the purchase. If you have been following the blog then you know that my crockpot and my Instant pot are my two favorite appliances.
Ingredients
- 6 Bone-In, Skin on Chicken Thighs ✅
- 1 Packet Dry Ranch Dressing Mix ✅
HOW TO MAKE
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Begin by preheating your air fryer to a sizzling 400 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing it to reach the optimal temperature for that perfect crisp.
Dry the Chicken:
Using paper towel, pat your chicken thighs dry. This step sets the stage for a crispy exterior that will make every bite a crunchy delight.
Season the Chicken:
Elevate the taste experience by generously seasoning both sides of the chicken thighs with the dry ranch dressing.
Air Fry:
Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs onto the air fryer rack, allowing for proper air circulation and ensuring an even golden crust on every side. Cook the chicken thighs for 12 minutes. Open the air fryer, flip the chicken, then continue to bake for another 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a safety-insured 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Garnish and Enjoy:
For the finishing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra dash of ranch seasoning. These Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Thighs are now ready to steal the spotlight at the dining table.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Thorough Drying:
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture ensures a crispy exterior during the air frying process.
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning:
- Consider making your own ranch seasoning mix for a more personalized touch. Combine dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of black pepper for a flavorful blend.
- Proper Air Circulation:
- Arrange the chicken thighs with some space between them on the air fryer rack. This allows hot air to circulate efficiently, promoting even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
- Temperature Monitoring:
- Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. Ensure it reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
FAQ
An air fryer is built to cook at high temperatures by circulating hot air around the food with a fan. This allows you to end up with food that is fried on the outside and juicy on the inside. No more dodging hot oil popping from your stovetop as you fry your favorite foods. My favorite part is the clean up because there is no need to dispose of a large pot of oil!
The internal temperature will reach 165 degrees and that is when you know your chicken is done cooking. I highly recommend investing in a meat thermometer.
You sure can! I tend to cook with chicken thighs because they are more tender, cost-effective and super kid-friendly. However, if you have chicken breast in the fridge or freezer then feel free to ingredient swap.
Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Thighs are great for weeknight dinners, potlucks or parties. This recipe can feed your family or be doubled/tripled to feed a crowd. Serve your ranch chicken thighs with Smashed Potatoes in Air Fryer, Red Potatoes or Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a complete meal.
More Air Fryer Recipes:
CKC Features both Gluten-Free Guidance and Kids Cooking Instructions: If you’re new to eating gluten-free we understand it’s overwhelming trying to figure out which foods may contain gluten and which ones don’t. All of our gluten-free recipes marked with this symbol ✅ represent foods that need to be checked for gluten or cross-contamination.
The ⭐️ symbol in the recipe below denotes the steps in which kid cooks may need a helper (depending on age). If there is no ⭐️ symbol, that step (or recipe) doesn’t require a helper.
Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- cutting board or pan
Ingredients
- 6 Bone-In, Skin on Chicken Thighs ✅
- 1 Packet Dry Ranch Dressing Mix ✅
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees
- Dry the chicken. Using paper towel, pat the chicken dry6 Bone-In, Skin on Chicken Thighs
- Season the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with dry ranch dressing1 Packet Dry Ranch Dressing Mix
- Prepare to cook. Place seasoned chicken thighs onto the air fryer rack.
- ⭐️Air Fry. Cook for 12 minutes, flip, then cook for 10-12 more minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
If you enjoyed these recipes make sure to leave a comment and a star rating below!
Then follow us on social media and tag #createkidsclub if you make the recipe. We love seeing what you come up with!
Marybeth says
The ranch was awesome, going to try Italian dressing next.
Bri says
I’m not seeing what temperature I’m supposed to airfry at
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Brittany! Set the air fryer to 400 degrees. I hope you enjoy!
Gloria Kanick says
I am going to try the first time. My Airfryer only goes to 390, It was one of the first ones out.
Linda says
Easy and delicious! Thighs were juicy with a crispy skin. Even my picky husband loved them!!!
Arlean says
Can u use the bottled ranch dressing for
This recipe?
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Arlean! In this particular recipe, the dry spice pack would work best, not the bottled ranch dressing.
Beck and Bulow says
I use this recipe many times. It is so simple, fast and easy to prepare. It also tastes delicious !!!! Thank you for the recipe.
Joe says
Can you use breast instead of thighs
Jodi Danen, RDN says
Hi Joe! Yes, you could use chicken breasts instead. I’d cut back on the cooking time to maybe 12-15 minutes. Check the internal temp to make sure it’s fully cooked (165°F).
Dance foodie says
does it have to be a ninja foodie air fryer?
Jodi Danen, RDN says
No, it does not. That’s just the model I used for the recipe. Good luck!