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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: The Best Easy Dinner

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These crispy air fryer chicken thighs are quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a foolproof technique, you’ll get crackling golden skin and juicy meat every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or oregano, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Add chicken thighs and toss well to coat evenly. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes if time allows.
  4. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
  5. Cook at 380°F for 12 minutes without opening the air fryer.
  6. Flip the chicken thighs using tongs so the skin side is facing up.
  7. Increase temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for another 8-10 minutes until skin is deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Transfer chicken to a cutting board or plate and let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken completely dry for crispiest skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to keep juices inside. For reheating, use air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken, keto chicken

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