Are you tired of dry, bland chicken that leaves you disappointed at the dinner table? Prepare to revolutionize your cooking game with these mouthwatering Ninja Foodi Chicken Thighs that promise restaurant-quality flavor in just 35 minutes! This foolproof recipe combines crispy, golden-brown skin with juicy, tender meat that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a kitchen novice, these chicken thighs are about to become your new go-to meal that's both impressive and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy skin during cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring that the seasoning gets under the skin as well. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, turn on your Ninja Foodi and select the 'Sear/Sauté' function. Allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Once preheated, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down in the pot. Sear them for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs over using tongs, and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
- After searing, add 1/4 cup of water or chicken broth to the pot to create steam. This will help cook the chicken evenly and keep it moist.
- Secure the pressure lid on the Ninja Foodi and ensure the valve is set to 'Seal.' Select the 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Vent' to release any remaining pressure.
- After the pressure has fully released, remove the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- If desired, for extra crispy skin, you can switch back to the 'Sear/Sauté' function and sear the chicken thighs for an additional 3-5 minutes, skin-side down, until they reach your preferred crispiness.
- Once done, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Ninja Foodi chicken thighs with your favorite sides and enjoy your delicious, flavorful meal!
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better seasoning absorption.
- Don't skip the marinating step - even 10 minutes allows the spices to penetrate the meat and enhance overall flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- For extra-crispy skin, the final sear is crucial - don't be afraid to give it those extra 3-5 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Experiment with different spice combinations to make the recipe your own - try adding smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne for extra kick.
- If you're meal prepping, these chicken thighs reheat beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 336kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 120mg
