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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

The ultimate weeknight dinner, Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Try this easy recipe tonight!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 29 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 6 pieces chicken thighs with bone and skin
  • 1 piece lemon
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs such as herbs de provence or dried oregano

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing your chicken thighs. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
  2. Now, it’s time to flavor the chicken. Squeeze the juice of half of the lemon over the thighs. Make sure to get the juice all over, which not only flavors the meat but also helps with the seasoning.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sweet paprika, and dried herbs. This will be your seasoning blend.
  4. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get it under the skin for maximum flavor. I love to use my hands for this step; it feels more personal!
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get nicely crispy.
  6. Once preheated, place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
  7. Air fry the chicken for twelve minutes. You'll notice the enticing aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks!
  8. After twelve minutes, carefully flip the chicken thighs over using tongs, and air fry for another twelve minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they’re golden and crispy.
  9. To check for doneness, ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is important for food safety!
  10. Finally, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender bite. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Thighs!

Notes

  • Tip 1: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze cooked chicken thighs. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they should keep for up to three months.
  • Tip 3: Serve these chicken thighs with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: If you have time, marinate the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor.
  • Tip 5: Use leftover chicken to top off a salad or make a delicious chicken sandwich.