There’s something so satisfying about biting into chicken that’s perfectly crispy on the outside yet irresistibly juicy inside. I’ve made fried chicken the old-fashioned way plenty of times, but I have to say — my air fryer has completely stolen my heart. It gives me that golden, crunchy crust without all the oil and mess. Plus, when I’m craving comfort food but want to keep things a little lighter, this recipe is my go-to.
These lemon-herb chicken thighs are fragrant, zesty, and downright delicious. The fresh citrus tang pairs beautifully with a mix of aromatic herbs, making each bite burst with flavor. And the best part? They’re ready in just about 35 minutes. I’ve served them for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, and even for friends when I wanted something fuss-free but impressive. Once you try them, I have a feeling you’ll be hooked, too.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken thighs: I like using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs because they turn out extra juicy with the most beautiful crispy skin in the air fryer. Boneless works too, but you’ll lose a bit of that irresistible crunch.
Fresh lemon juice: Bright and tangy, lemon juice is the star of the flavor profile here. It tenderizes the meat slightly and gives the chicken a fresh, lively kick.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of savory depth that complements the lemon perfectly. It’s a simple ingredient that elevates the whole dish.
Olive oil: A little drizzle helps the seasoning cling to the chicken while promoting a golden-brown crust. Plus, it keeps the meat moist during cooking.
Dried oregano: This earthy, slightly peppery herb pairs beautifully with chicken and citrus, adding a rustic Mediterranean flair.
Dried thyme: Warm, slightly minty, and subtly floral, thyme balances out the zesty lemon flavor.
Salt and black pepper: The classic seasoning duo that brings all the flavors together and makes them pop.
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Lemon-Herb Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting that perfect crispy skin in the air fryer.
Step 2: Make the seasoning mix
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Coat the chicken
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get some underneath the skin for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Arrange in the air fryer
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding so the air can circulate and crisp up the skin evenly.
Step 5: Air fry to perfection
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through if you want extra-even browning. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute so every bite is moist and flavorful.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t skip drying the chicken — moisture on the skin will prevent it from crisping up.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best flavor.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary after cooking for a burst of freshness.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes! They’ll cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness around the 18-minute mark.
Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate it for up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
It’s optional, but preheating for 3–5 minutes can help jump-start the crisping process.
Can I make this with chicken breasts?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time since breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily.