Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a quick, juicy, and flavorful chicken recipe, these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a total winner! They come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all without the mess of deep frying. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime you crave something delicious and easy.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy & Juicy – Perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior and juicy meat.
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 25 minutes with minimal prep.
Healthier – Less oil than traditional frying without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile – Great for salads, wraps, rice bowls, or on their own.
Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Thighs:

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

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Tongs
• Small mixing bowl
• Brush for oil (optional)
• Instant-read thermometer (for perfect doneness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
Preheating helps achieve an even, crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken thighs, rubbing it into all sides for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down first.
Make sure they are not overlapping for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes.
Flip the chicken thighs over using tongs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes.
This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender and flavorful.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Optional: Sprinkle with a little extra paprika or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Pat Dry Thoroughly – Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin.
Don’t Overcrowd – Give each thigh room to allow air circulation.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfect doneness every time.
Customize the Seasoning – Try lemon pepper, BBQ spice, or Cajun seasoning for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting alongside crispy chicken.
Steamed Broccoli – A healthy, simple side dish.
Garden Salad – Fresh and crunchy to balance the richness.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy and flavorful to complete your meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing: Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken thighs 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.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, though the skin may not stay as crisp.
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes covered in foil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
   Yes! Reduce the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes per side, checking for doneness.
2. Do I need to marinate the chicken?
   Not necessary for this recipe, but you can marinate it for extra flavor if desired.
3. Can I make this recipe with skinless chicken thighs?
   Yes, but the skin helps to get a crispy exterior. Without skin, you’ll have juicy chicken but not the same crunch.
4. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are the ultimate go-to for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly crispy, juicy chicken that beats takeout any day.
Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the fryer or save them for a quick lunch the next day, these chicken thighs are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your creations on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see what you cook up.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 500mg

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