Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial — removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer. Once dry, place the thighs in a bowl or on a plate.

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it evenly over each thigh. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated thoroughly, especially under the skin if possible.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This helps start the cooking process immediately, so you get that nice golden finish.

Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Then flip them skin-side up and cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps every bite tender and flavorful. Serve as is or with your favorite sides!