Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful and Effortless Dish

Savor the succulent and crispy goodness of our Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe! With just a handful of simple ingredients and the magic of air frying technology, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken thighs that are juicy on the inside and wonderfully crispy on the outside. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fuss-free meal prep option, these air fryer chicken thighs are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Join us as we walk through the steps to create this delicious and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Meat

4 Chicken thighs, skin-on boneless

Produce

3/4 tsp Garlic powder

Baking & Spices

1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
1 tsp Paprika, smoked
1/2 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

2 tsp Olive oil, extra-virgin

Instructions

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Prepare Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure a crispy exterior.
Season Chicken Thighs: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush or drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken thighs. This will help promote browning and crispiness during cooking.
Air Fry Chicken Thighs: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each thigh for air circulation. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, or until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Rest and Serve: Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.
Serve: Serve the air fryer chicken thighs hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations

Skin-On vs. Skinless: While this recipe calls for skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor and crispiness, you can also use skinless chicken thighs if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as skinless thighs may cook slightly faster.
Custom Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor, or spice it up with cayenne pepper or chili powder for a kick of heat.
Marinating Option: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in your favorite marinade or a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before air frying.

Keto and Low Carb Versions

Keto Version

For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, simply omit the olive oil or use it sparingly, as the chicken thighs will render their own fat during cooking. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy these crispy air fryer chicken thighs as part of your low-carb or keto meal plan.

Low Carb Version

To make a low-carb version of this recipe, use a reduced amount of seasoned salt or omit it altogether to reduce the sodium content. Serve the air fryer chicken thighs with low-carb side dishes such as steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?

Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in thighs may take slightly longer to cook than boneless thighs.

2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken thighs, keep in mind that they may cook faster and have a tendency to dry out. If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness or adjusting the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

3. How do I know when the chicken thighs are done?

The chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the skin should be crispy and golden brown.

4. Can I double the recipe in the air fryer?

It’s best not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking. If doubling the recipe, cook the chicken thighs in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

5. Can I reheat leftover chicken thighs in the air fryer?

Yes, leftover chicken thighs can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help restore their crispiness and freshness.

In conclusion, our Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy crispy and flavorful chicken thighs with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, these juicy and crispy chicken thighs are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and the convenience of air frying technology, this recipe is a must-try for chicken lovers everywhere. So fire up your air fryer, season up those chicken thighs, and get ready to enjoy a perfectly crispy and satisfying meal that will leave everyone coming back for more!