Name: Best Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs with Avocado Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in); 2 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup fresh cilantro; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/2 avocado; 1 garlic clove; 2 tbsp lime juice; 2 tbsp agave (or sweetener of choice); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

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These Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs with Avocado Sauce are juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor — all without the hassle of deep frying. The chicken is seasoned with smoky spices, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, and served with a creamy, zesty avocado-cilantro sauce that takes it to the next level. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthier take on comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy skin and juicy chicken, made healthier in the air fryer.
The avocado-cilantro sauce adds a fresh, tangy, and creamy balance.
Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal prep.
Easy to customize with different seasonings or sauces.
A family-friendly recipe that works for meal prep too.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken Thighs:

6 chicken thighs (boneless or bone-in)
2 tablespoon avocado oil
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Avocado Sauce:

1 cup fresh cilantro (a small handful)
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
½ avocado
1 garlic clove
2 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoon agave (or preferred sweetener)
2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Thighs:

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix baking powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Rub chicken with avocado oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over each thigh.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Cook for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Make the Avocado Sauce:

In a blender, combine cilantro, Greek yogurt, avocado, garlic, lime juice, agave, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve:

Plate the crispy chicken thighs and drizzle with avocado sauce, or serve sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or wings.
Add chili powder or cayenne for spicier chicken.
Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt in the sauce.
Add a serrano or jalapeño to the sauce for extra heat.
Replace cilantro with parsley if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Store avocado sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat chicken in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.
Do not freeze the avocado sauce, as it will separate.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly since breasts cook faster.

Why use baking powder on chicken?

It helps dry out the skin and makes it extra crispy in the air fryer.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.

Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but for the freshest flavor, make it the same day.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can use sour cream or plain yogurt as a substitute.

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add extra chili or a serrano pepper to the sauce.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, cook chicken ahead of time and store separately from sauce. Reheat before serving.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

These Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs with Avocado Sauce are a winning combination of crispy, juicy chicken and creamy, zesty sauce. Easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining, this recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With bold seasoning, golden skin, and a refreshing dip, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.