Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with irresistibly crispy skin, all made effortlessly in an air fryer. Perfectly seasoned with simple spices, these chicken thighs are a delicious weeknight dinner option that cook quickly and without added oil, preserving flavor and texture while keeping it healthier than traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if using. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat under the skin and on all sides.
- Place Chicken in Air Fryer Basket: Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. This allows hot air circulation for even crisping.
- Cook the Chicken: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Then, flip the chicken thighs skin-side up and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning.
- You can swap dried thyme for rosemary or oregano depending on your flavor preference.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without drying out the meat.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If your air fryer is smaller, cook chicken thighs in batches to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking.
