Description
This easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe delivers perfectly crispy, juicy chicken with a flavorful blend of spices. Using the air fryer ensures a quick cook time while achieving golden brown, tender meat with minimal effort, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, about 2 1/2 pounds
Seasoning
- 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
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during cooking. Place them in a large bowl.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken thighs and rub it into both sides thoroughly for full flavor.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
- Arrange Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd to allow hot air to circulate freely.
- Cook First Side: Cook the chicken thighs for 10 minutes skin side down to start crisping the skin and locking in moisture.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the chicken thighs skin side up and cook for an additional 10 to 14 minutes. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for tender, juicy results.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes if needed, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used but may require slightly less cooking time.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
