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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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This recipe delivers crispy, golden chicken thighs with tender, juicy meat using an air fryer. Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Optional: fresh lemon juice for serving
  • Optional: hot sauce or chili flakes for heat

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible from the skin (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme.
  3. Rub the seasoning evenly over each thigh, making sure to get under the skin if possible.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss gently to coat.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  7. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
  8. Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up using tongs and air fry for another 10-12 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
  9. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If not, cook for 2-3 more minutes.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Flip the chicken only once halfway through cooking to prevent tearing the skin. Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. For extra crispiness, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to refresh crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken thighs, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-tender-juicy-meat-guide/