Okay, friends, let’s talk about dinner. Specifically, those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, wondering what magical combination you have. What will be edible in the next 30 years? What are Air Fryer Chicken Thighs? What’s a weeknight version of Sunday roast chicken? If you’re anything like me and love a good shortcut that delivers big flavor, this recipe is perfect. is about to become your best friend. Is it easier to bake them in the oven than pan-frying? What are some of the best fried chickens you’ve ever had? My family begs for these!
What is an air fry chicken thigh?
Think of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs as the ultimate comfort food, reimagined for the modern kitchen. Is it bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned generously with a blend of spices and herbs? How do you cook a fried chicken in an air fryer? What is the magic of an air fryer? What is the best way to get crispy skin without oil? Is frying healthier? Who doesn’t love crispy chicken skin? What is the easiest way to make dinner in a few minutes? Is it a one-pan wonder that delivers restaurant-quality results, without any fancy techniques or fancy recipes? Hard to find ingredients. What’s more, clean-up is a breeze!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? Why am I obsessed with this Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe? What is the first and foremost, the human mind?flavorIs it amazing? What is the combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper? What are some of the most addictive flavors? What I love most is that it’s incredibly versatile too. How do I adjust the seasonings to suit my taste preferences? Why not add cayenne?simplicityWhere does this recipe really shine? Is it worth it to buy an air fryer? No babysitting, no constant flipping, just set it and forget it (well, almost!). This one is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you’re short on time and energy. It’s also incredibly beautiful.cost-efficientThe chicken thighs are one of the most affordable cuts of chicken. What is the best thing about it?versatileCan you serve it with a variety of sides from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables? What is a simple salad? My kids love mac and cheese. What are some good ways to serve it? What is the best recipe for chicken breast? Much juicier and tastier I promise, this will become a family favorite!
How do I make air fry chicken thighs?
Quick Overview
How do you make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs? How do you mix spices together? Then, you’ll generously coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny. What is a cranny? Next, pop them into your preheated air fryer basket and let the magic happen. What is an air fryer? It’s amazing how much hot air can circulate around the chicken. What is the most difficult part of this recipe?
Ingredients
For the Air Fryer Chicken Thighs:
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: I always try to buy organic, but any good quality chicken thighs will work. Make sure they’re roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promote crispy skin.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a smoky sweetness to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder is the key to savory chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder gives you that subtle oniony background note.
• 12 teaspoon dried thyme: Dried thieme adds a touch of earthiness.
I use 12 teaspoon salt for a clean, pure flavor.
• 14 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best!
• 14 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat, add pistachio powder. If you don’t like spice, feel free to omit this.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
How do I get crispy skin in an Air Fryer? If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, just run it at 400°F for about 5 minutes before removing it from the heat. What is the best way to add chicken
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
What is the best way to pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels? How do I remove excess moisture from my skin? I always do this, even if the chicken looks dry already. How much moisture can you get off your skin?
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, and salt. Set aside. Salt, Black Pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Brush the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin as well. Where all the flavor lives, so don’t skimp!
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Place chicken thighs in an Air Fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket, or the chicken will not cook evenly or get crispy. If necessary, cook in batches. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. I always use a meat thermometer to make sure they are cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the Air Fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Before serving. Why is it that the juices are redistributed, resulting in a juicier chicken.
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?For a Classic Comfort Meal: Serve them with mashed potatoes and gravy, alongside some steamed green beans or roasted carrots.
What are some quick dinner ideas for a weeknight?Pair them with a side of quinoa or rice. What are some good ways to serve arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette?For a BBQ-Inspired Feast:Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans. What are some good ways to serve BBQ sauce on top?For a lighter meal:Serve them with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. What is my favorite way to enjoy these foods – healthy and delicious! My family loves tacos. I serve them over a big bowl of rice with some cilantro. What is stir-fried What are the endless possibilities?
How do I make a perfect air fryer chicken thigh?
How do I take my Air Fryer Chicken Thighs to the next level? What are some of the best tips for achieving crispy, juicy perfection every single time?Don’t overcrowd the basket: DonWhat is the most important tip? Overcrowding prevents the air from circulating properly, resulting in soggy, unevenly cooked meat. Cook in batches if needed.How do you pat chicken dry?As I mentioned earlier, removing excess moisture is essential for crispy skin. If you are cooking chicken, use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry.Don’t skip the olive oil: Why? The olive oil helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes browning and crisping.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier exterior.
Adjust the Seasonings to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own signature flavor blend. Smoked paprika, chili powder, and Italian seasoning are all great additions.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier, more flavorful chicken.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, you can use the microwave, oven, or air fryer.
Microwave: This is the quickest method, but the chicken might not be as crispy. Reheat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Air Fryer: This is my preferred method for reheating, as it helps to restore some of the crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are seriously a game-changer. They’re quick, easy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. If you love the ease of air frying, check out my other air fryer recipes! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so be sure to leave a comment and rating below. And if you try any variations, please share them with me – I’m always looking for new ideas! Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
