Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick and easy way to make crispy, juicy chicken without the need for a lot of oil or fuss. The air fryer gives you the perfect crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious air fryer chicken thighs:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (you can use boneless skinless if preferred, but bone-in works best for juicy results)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or any herb of your choice, such as rosemary or oregano)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to get the skin crispy.
- Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil to coat them evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re well-coated.
3. Air Fry the Chicken Thighs:
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation for crispy skin.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, then flip the chicken thighs over (skin-side up).
- Continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer, and the skin is crispy.
4. Serve:
- Once cooked through and golden brown, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer.
- Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for added brightness.
Tips:
- Crispier Skin: For even crispier skin, you can spray the chicken thighs lightly with cooking spray before cooking.
- Boneless Thighs: If you’re using boneless, skinless thighs, reduce the cooking time by 5-7 minutes, as they cook faster.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as chili powder for a smoky flavor, or a little cayenne pepper for heat.
These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. Enjoy!