This air fryer chicken thighs recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown skin with juicy, tender meat—all in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve even cooking and crispy skin.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels—this removes excess moisture, ensuring a crispy finish.
- Season the Chicken: Rub each thigh with olive oil, coating all sides evenly. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, pressing it into the skin for maximum flavor.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow hot air to circulate evenly.
- Cook:
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs 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.
- Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs:
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures your chicken is fully cooked without overcooking.
- Customize the seasoning: Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or a touch of brown sugar for a sweet-smoky flavor.
- No overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect crisp.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick and easy way to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat in under 20 minutes. With simple seasoning and proper preparation, you’ll have a delicious meal perfect for any day. For the best results, always pat the chicken dry, preheat the air fryer, and use a meat thermometer.
If you love Sunday Gravy check this: The Best Sunday Gravy – A Flavorful Tomato & Meat Sauce.
