There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a perfectly crispy yet juicy chicken thigh. When I first tried making chicken thighs in the air fryer, I was hooked. The results are absolutely incredible—crispy skin, tender meat, and a flavor profile that hits every note. Plus, it’s easy and quick! Air fryers have become one of my favorite kitchen gadgets because they make cooking feel like a breeze, and this recipe is no exception.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for a weekend barbecue, these air fryer chicken thighs are the way to go. The best part? You don’t need a deep fryer to get that golden, crunchy exterior. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have restaurant-quality chicken in no time. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Thighs: The star of this recipe! Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal because the skin crisps up nicely in the air fryer, and the meat stays juicy and flavorful. They also cook evenly and quickly, making them perfect for this method.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps achieve that crispy exterior. It also contributes a slight richness to the flavor, ensuring your chicken thighs turn out perfectly golden.
Garlic Powder: This seasoning adds a subtle but delicious depth of flavor. Garlic powder gives the chicken that savory punch without overwhelming the natural taste of the thighs.
Paprika: Paprika not only adds a gorgeous color to the skin, but it also infuses a smoky flavor that enhances the chicken’s overall profile. It’s a must-have for any crispy chicken recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential. The salt helps to bring out the chicken’s natural flavor, while the pepper adds a touch of heat and freshness to balance everything out.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds an earthy flavor to complement the richness of the chicken. It’s not overpowering, just a hint that elevates the overall dish.
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is key to getting that crispy skin. Then, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with the garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure all the seasoning sticks to the chicken for that full, flavorful taste.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the skin is beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure the chicken thighs aren’t stacked on top of each other. If they are, they won’t cook evenly and may not get that desired crispiness.
- Adjust the seasoning: If you like a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, always check the internal temperature. 165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot for juicy, tender chicken.
- Try boneless thighs: If you prefer boneless thighs, you can cook them the same way, but reduce the cooking time to around 15-18 minutes.
- Rest before serving: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps seal in the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe? Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time to around 15-18 minutes.
Do I need to flip the chicken thighs halfway through? Yes, flipping the chicken helps ensure even cooking and that crispy skin on both sides.
Can I use skinless chicken thighs? While skinless thighs are an option, they won’t get as crispy as skin-on ones. If you prefer skinless, you can still make this recipe, but it will lack that satisfying crunch.
How do I store leftover chicken thighs? Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
Can I cook more than 4 chicken thighs at once? Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may be able to cook more. Just ensure the thighs aren’t crowded in the basket to allow air circulation. If needed, cook in batches.
This air fryer chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! It’s quick, simple, and delivers amazing flavor every time. Enjoy this dish as a main course with your favorite sides, or use it as a protein for salads and wraps. Happy cooking!