Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a perfectly crispy, juicy piece of chicken. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, Air Fryer Chicken Thighs offer a foolproof way to get that deep-fried texture without the mess or excess oil. With the right seasoning and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that rivals restaurant-quality fried chicken, all from the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, the air fryer locks in moisture while crisping up the skin, making it an unbeatable choice for chicken lovers.

I remember the first time I made air fryer chicken thighs—I was skeptical. Could something this easy really deliver on flavor and texture? But after that first golden, crispy bite, I was hooked. The seasoning had seeped deep into the meat, the skin crackled with each bite, and the whole kitchen smelled like something straight out of my favorite comfort food diner. Since then, it has become my go-to dish whenever I need a satisfying meal in a hurry, and I love switching up the seasonings to keep things interesting.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Crispy and Juicy: Achieves a perfect crispy skin while keeping the inside tender.
• Healthy Alternative: Uses less oil compared to frying.
• Versatile: Can be seasoned in numerous ways to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Store and reheat easily for a quick meal.

First: Gather Your Ingredients

To make crispy chicken thighs, you’ll need:

• Chicken thighs: 6 bone-in, skin-on pieces.
• Lemon: 1, juiced.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (such as oregano or herbs de Provence)

Second: Preparing the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Rub with lemon juice for a hint of tanginess and to help the seasoning stick.
3. Mix the seasoning blend in a small bowl.
4. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the spice mixture.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, you might also enjoy trying this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes Skillet for another easy and flavorful meal option.

Third: Cooking the Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for even cooking.
2. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 12 minutes, then flip the chicken thighs over.
4. Continue cooking for another 12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
5. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
6. Rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Thighs

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: This ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
• Use a meat thermometer: Guarantees the chicken is cooked to perfection.
• Experiment with seasonings: Try Cajun, Italian, or BBQ seasoning for variety.
• Flip halfway through: This helps get that golden-brown crisp on both sides.

If you’re a fan of air fryer recipes, you might also love this Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms, perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

Placing too many thighs in the basket prevents air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed.

Skipping the Preheat Step

A preheated air fryer ensures crispy skin and juicy meat right from the start.

Not Checking the Internal Temperature

Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.

FAQs About Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

How Long Do You Cook Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?

For bone-in, skin-on thighs, cook at 400°F for 24 minutes, flipping halfway through. For boneless thighs, reduce the time to 18-20 minutes at the same temperature.

Should I Flip Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer?

Yes! Flipping halfway through cooking ensures even crisping and browning on both sides.

How Do You Get Extra Crispy Skin?

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and lightly brushing with oil helps achieve extra crispiness.

Can You Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs in an Air Fryer?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to 30-35 minutes at 400°F. Always check the internal temperature before serving.

What’s the Best Seasoning for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?

Some great seasoning blends include:

• Classic Garlic & Herb: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano.
• Spicy Cajun: Cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
• Sweet & Smoky BBQ: Brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

For those looking for another hearty and comforting dish, try this Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe, perfect for a slow-cooked meal.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Pair these crispy, juicy chicken thighs with delicious sides like:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Coleslaw or a fresh garden salad
• Quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Conclusion

Chicken thighs are an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers crispy skin, juicy meat, and loads of flavor with minimal effort. Try this recipe today, and let us know in the comments how it turned out!

Want more air fryer recipes? Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates!

 

Print