Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with irresistibly crispy skin, seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and herbs. Perfect for an easy, delicious weeknight dinner, these bone-in, skin-on thighs cook quickly in the air fryer for a healthier alternative to frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Thighs
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 1/2 pounds)
Seasoning & Coating
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispy skin)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin. Place the thighs in a large bowl.
- Coat with Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub well to evenly coat all pieces, ensuring the seasoning sticks properly.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and baking powder (if using). Mix thoroughly.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken thighs and rub thoroughly to coat all sides evenly for full flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure optimal cooking temperature.
- Arrange Chicken in Basket: Place the chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook First Side: Cook the chicken for 12 minutes, allowing the skin side to crisp up nicely.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the thighs so the skin side is up and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
Notes
- If using boneless, skinless thighs, reduce cooking time by 3 to 5 minutes and check for doneness earlier to prevent drying out.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; give the chicken enough space for hot air to circulate for crispy skin.
- Customize the seasoning blend with your favorite spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
