Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor—these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are about to become your new go-to dinner. With a perfectly seasoned, golden-brown crust and tender, juicy meat, this dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you just need something downright delicious.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, whipping up a quick dinner, or impressing guests, these chicken thighs deliver. Here’s why you’ll love them:
Crispy & Juicy: The air fryer works its magic to create a crispy exterior while locking in all the moisture.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Healthy Alternative: Enjoy that deep-fried crunch with way less oil.
Budget-Friendly: Chicken thighs are affordable yet incredibly flavorful.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings to fit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Here’s the beauty of this recipe—it’s made with simple pantry staples, but the flavor is out of this world. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and crisps up the skin.
Paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth of flavor.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that savory kick.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic for a well-rounded taste.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the dish.
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F to ensure crispy skin.
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry, then rub with olive oil. Sprinkle with the seasoning blend, ensuring even coverage.
Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook to Perfection: Air fry for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These thighs are incredibly versatile! Here’s how to enjoy them:
With Roasted Veggies: Pair with air-fried or oven-roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Over Rice or Pasta: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy pasta.
With a Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the chicken.
In a Wrap or Sandwich: Slice and stuff into a tortilla or bun for a quick lunch.
Additional Tips
Pat the Chicken Dry: This helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Try Different Seasonings: Experiment with Cajun, lemon pepper, or barbecue rubs for variety.
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 18-20 minutes.
Can I cook frozen chicken thighs?
Yes! Add an extra 5-8 minutes to the cooking time and check for doneness.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I make this recipe without oil?
Yes, but the skin may not get as crispy. Try spraying with a bit of cooking spray.
What side dishes go well with this?
Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, garlic bread, or sautéed greens.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Absolutely! Marinating for a few hours enhances the flavor, but pat dry before air frying for crispiness.
Can I use skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Consider adding a light breading for texture.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and letting the chicken rest before serving.
Can I make this in a traditional oven?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are the ultimate easy dinner crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a meal-prep staple, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen!
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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a weeknight staple—juicy on the inside, perfectly seasoned, and golden brown on the outside! A quick and easy dinner recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for high-protein recipes for dinner or healthy recipes that are easy to make, this is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (herbs de Provence or dried oregano)
Instructions
- Squeeze the juice of ½ lemon over the chicken thighs, then season evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
- Rub the seasoning all over the chicken to coat well.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes, then flip and cook for another 12 minutes until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Nutritional info includes the skin; removing the skin will reduce fat content.
- For boneless thighs, reduce cooking time to about 10-12 minutes per side.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 213
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 88 mg