Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Easy and Delicious

Introduction

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy juicy and flavorful chicken with a crispy exterior. This recipe keeps things simple with a basic seasoning blend that allows the natural taste of the chicken to shine through. With the magic of the air fryer, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather the essential ingredients you’ll need for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-4 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and that coveted crispy skin.

2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs. Ensure they are well coated with the seasoning.

3. Arrange the Chicken Thighs

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure to leave some space between them for even air circulation.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Thighs

Carefully place the basket in the preheated air fryer.
Air fry the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time (around the 15-minute mark) to ensure that both sides get crispy and golden brown.
Keep an eye on the chicken in the final minutes to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has that irresistible crispy skin.

5. Rest and Serve

Once the Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket.
Allow the chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Serve the hot and crispy chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious meal. The air fryer’s magic ensures that you achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat.

So, preheat your air fryer, season those chicken thighs, and get ready to enjoy a batch of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the easy and delicious perfection!