Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a quick, juicy, and flavorful dinner, these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are exactly what you need! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Plus, they cook up faster and healthier than traditional fried chicken, making them a weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super Crispy – The air fryer gives you that perfect crisp without all the oil.
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Juicy & Flavorful – Moist chicken thighs that burst with savory goodness.
Minimal Ingredients – Simple pantry staples create big flavor.
Perfect for Any Meal – Serve them for lunch, dinner, or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little kick)

Optional for Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Basting brush (optional)
• Meat thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them get extra crispy.
2. In a large bowl, drizzle the chicken with olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken thighs, rubbing it in evenly on all sides.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. This ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately and crisps up nicely.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

1. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, in a single layer.
2. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes.
3. Flip the thighs over so the skin side is up, and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes.
4. Check the internal temperature—it should be at least 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Let the chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
3. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Dry Chicken Thoroughly – Patting dry ensures a crispy skin.
Don’t Overcrowd – Give each thigh space for air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Adjust for Boneless Thighs – If using boneless thighs, reduce cooking time by about 5 minutes.
Customize the Seasonings – Add your favorite spice blends like Cajun, Italian, or BBQ.

Serving Suggestions

• With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans.
• Over Rice: Spoon over fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
• With Salad: Pair with a crisp garden or Caesar salad for a lighter option.
• In Wraps or Tacos: Slice up and stuff into tortillas with your favorite toppings.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes until warmed through.
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a lower power setting to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs?
   Yes! Adjust the cooking time by about 5 minutes less. They still come out delicious and juicy.
2. Do I need to marinate the chicken?
   Not necessary for this recipe, but you can marinate for extra flavor if you have time.
3. What’s the best air fryer for chicken thighs?
   Any model works! Just make sure there’s enough space for the air to circulate around each piece.
4. Can I cook frozen chicken thighs?
   Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 5–7 minutes. Always check the internal temperature.
5. How do I make it extra crispy?
   Brush a little extra oil on the skin side before the final few minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and savory flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this quick and easy recipe will become a new favorite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fried chicken without the guilt and without the mess!

Try it today and see how easy and delicious homemade crispy chicken can be. Don’t forget to share your creations with us!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 400mg

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