Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

I make these crispy air fryer turkey thighs when I want a hearty dinner that's still simple and healthy in less than 30 minutes. The skin turns golden and crunchy while the meat stays juicy and tender, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a touch of butter.

If you don't feel like cooking a whole turkey, air fryer bone in turkey thighs give you the same golden results in a fraction of the time.

They're perfect for smaller Thanksgiving or holiday get-together or they're great for who just wants a high protein fall dinner that tastes like comfort food.

Things to Know Before Air Frying Fryer Turkey Thighs ❤️

• Crispy skin is all about drying them first. Pat the turkey thighs very dry before seasoning and make sure your air fryer is fully preheated.
• Our recipe is written for bone-in thighs but you can use boneless if preferred! They'll be done in 18-20 minutes instead of 25-30.
• Seasoning is flexible. Herbs de Provence add a classic flavor, but Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, or a smoky dry rub all work.

I've been creating easy, healthy air fryer recipes since 2018, and turkey is one of my favorite proteins because it always comes out juicy, plus it's a great way to get more protein in your day.

If you love these thighs, try my air fryer turkey cutlets, air fryer turkey legs, or popular air fryer bone-in turkey breast.

Ingredients Overview

• Turkey thighs: Bone-in, skin-on gives the juiciest meat and crispiest skin. Boneless thighs also work with a shorter cook time (18-20 minutes).
• Olive oil: Helps crisp the skin and makes the seasoning stick. Avocado oil or melted butter are good substitutes.
• Garlic salt: Quick and flavorful. You can also use garlic powder plus salt.
• Black pepper: Adds balance with a mild kick.
• Herbs de Provence: Classic herb blend for turkey. Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme make easy swaps.
• Butter (optional): Brushed on halfway for extra golden skin and flavor.

For the full ingredient list with measurements, see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

I tested this recipe in a Cosori XL basket-style air fryer, but you can use any air fryer. Just keep an eye on timing since oven-style models may cook a little differently.

How to Cook Air Fryer Turkey Thighs

STEP 1: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for 5 minutes. A hot basket helps the skin crisp right away.

STEP 2: Season the turkey

Pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Mix olive oil, garlic salt, pepper, and herbs in a small bowl. Brush over both sides of the turkey thighs.

STEP 3: How long to cook

Place thighs in a single layer, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the basket-air circulation is what makes the skin crispy. Cook for 10 minutes.

STEP 4: Flip and add butter

Turn the thighs skin-side up. Brush with melted butter or spoon pan juices over the top. Cook for another 15 to 18 minutes.

STEP 5: Check the temperature

Use a meat thermometer in the thickest part. Turkey is safe at 165°F, but cooking to 175-180°F makes the meat more tender because the connective tissues break down.

STEP 6: Rest before serving

Remove the thighs and let rest for 10 minutes. This step keeps the juices in the meat so every bite is moist and flavorful.

Substitutions and Variations

Change up the flavor by using Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, or a poultry rub. For a smoky twist, try our smoked turkey dry rub. The same method works with turkey drumsticks, wings, or a bone-in breast.

What to Serve with Turkey Thighs

Air fryer turkey thighs are a flexible main dish. For weeknights, they're great paired with air fryer baby potatoes, sweet potato slices, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a healthy balanced dinner.

For holidays, serve with stuffing, cranberry sauce, and your favorite sides without needing a whole bird.

Storage and Freezing

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat the turkey in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed and crisp.

Freeze cooked turkey thighs for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Stock up them during the fall and store them in the freezer as a healthy protein source all winter.

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Turkey Thighs in the Air Fryer FAQ's

Can you cook frozen turkey thighs in the air fryer?

Yes. Add 10-15 extra minutes to the cook time and check with a thermometer. Pat dry once thawed to keep the skin crispy.

How do you get crispy skin on turkey thighs?

Dry the thighs thoroughly, preheat the air fryer, and avoid crowding. Butter or oil brushed on halfway helps the skin brown and crisp.

Can I use boneless turkey thighs?

Yes. Boneless thighs cook faster, usually 18-20 minutes. They stay juicy but won't have quite as much crispy skin as bone-in.

More Air Fryer Turkey Recipes

Turkey is a great lean protein source and we have many air fryer recipes on our site! Looking for more air fryer turkey recipes? You'll love these too. ❤️

• Air fryer boneless turkey breast (from frozen)
• Air fryer turkey tenderloin
• Turkey wings in an air fryer

More Turkey Recipes

We love eating turkey, it's a delicious and lean protein source that's terrific year round. Many of these cuts are still available in the freezer section throughout the year.

• Herb turkey thighs in the air fryer
• Easy roast turkey
• Herb butter baked turkey thighs
• Breaded turkey cutlets
• Simple turkey brine
• Roast half turkey breast recipe
• Smoked turkey breast recipe

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