Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy tender, juicy, and crispy chicken without the need for excessive oil. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple and flavorful recipe to create delicious Air Fryer Chicken Thighs that are perfect for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, you’ll need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Brush the chicken thighs with the seasoning blend, making sure to coat them evenly on both sides.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
3. Air Fry the Chicken Thighs
- Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly grease the air fryer basket or tray with cooking spray (optional) to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray, skin-side down.
- Air fry the chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- After the initial cooking time, flip the chicken thighs over and continue air frying for another 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve your chicken thighs hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more or less of the paprika, garlic powder, or other spices based on your preference.
- To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken thighs are of similar size.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the chicken thighs with cooking spray before air frying.
These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a fantastic way to enjoy the deliciousness of crispy chicken without the excess oil and mess. Whether you serve them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these chicken thighs are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the juicy and crispy perfection in every bite!
