Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a game-changer for weeknight dinners! Juicy on the inside with irresistibly crispy skin, they’re packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Using the air fryer cuts down on oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, these chicken thighs pair well with just about any side dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispy skin.
- Season: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Notes:
- Bone-In, Skin-On: This recipe works best with bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and crispiness.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to customize the spice mix. Cajun seasoning or lemon pepper are great alternatives.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes to retain the crispiness.
Tips:
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get the crispiest skin.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the thighs in a single layer without overlapping for even cooking.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Servings:
- Serves 4 (1 chicken thigh per serving)
Nutritional Info (Per Serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
Benefits:
- High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
- Low Carb: Suitable for low-carb and keto diets.
- Healthy Fats: Skin-on thighs provide satisfying, healthy fats that help you feel full longer.
- Air Fryer Cooking: Reduces the need for excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying.
Q/A:
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter (about 8-10 minutes per side). Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: What sides go well with these chicken thighs?
A: These pair well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
A: It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. However, if cooking from frozen, add about 5-7 minutes to the total cooking time.
Q: How do I make the skin extra crispy?
A: Ensure the skin is completely dry before seasoning and cook skin-side down first. You can also increase the temperature to 410°F (210°C) for the last 3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Enjoy these flavorful, crispy air fryer chicken thighs with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal!