Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are the perfect answer to an easy, flavor-packed meal. With just a handful of pantry spices and minimal oil, they deliver restaurant-worthy results in under 25 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is a guaranteed go-to!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 25 minutes with no fuss.
Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat – Perfect texture every time thanks to the air fryer.
Flavor-Packed – A bold seasoning blend coats each bite.
Low Effort, Big Results – Just season, cook, and serve.
Versatile – Great with veggies, salads, rice, or wrapped in a tortilla.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, skinless if preferred)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley or chopped chives
Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need
Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Tongs
Paper towels
Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture—this helps the skin crisp up.
Place them in a large bowl or on a plate.

Step 2: Season the Thighs
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil.
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using).
Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and rub it in on both sides.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes for optimal crispiness.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down.
Cook at 380°F for 10 minutes.
Flip the chicken and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Dry the Skin – This is key to crispiness. Pat dry thoroughly.
Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches if needed to allow hot air to circulate.
Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Boneless Option – Reduce cook time by 2–3 minutes for boneless thighs.
Customize the Seasoning – Add cumin, curry powder, or lemon pepper for a flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions
With Roasted Veggies – Try air-fried broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.
Over Rice or Quinoa – A hearty, balanced dinner idea.
In a Wrap – Slice and stuff into pitas or tortillas with fresh veggies.
On a Salad – Top a bed of greens with sliced chicken and vinaigrette.
Meal Prep – Make a batch and store for quick lunches or dinners.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating:
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 4–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Oven: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals (skin may not stay crispy).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
   Yes! Reduce the cook time to about 14–16 minutes total.
2. How do I get the skin extra crispy?
   Make sure it’s dry, and cook skin-side up for the last half of cooking time.
3. Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
   For best results, thaw completely before air frying. Frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
4. What size air fryer works best?
   A 5-quart or larger air fryer fits 4 thighs without crowding.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a game-changing way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Crispy, golden skin and a tender, seasoned interior make them a hit every time. Whether you’re serving them with classic sides or slicing them into wraps and bowls, this recipe will quickly become part of your weekly routine.

Give it a try and let me know how you served yours! Don’t forget to tag your dish and leave a review—I’d love to see it.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 thigh):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 22g | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 310mg

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