Print

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs – Easy Juicy Recipe

air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

These air fryer chicken thighs deliver shatteringly crispy skin and juicy meat in under 30 minutes. A simple baking powder trick transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels. Let them sit on a plate while you prepare the seasoning mix.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder. Stir with a fork to break up any clumps.
  4. Place the dried chicken thighs in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, turning to coat all sides. Get seasoning under the skin if possible.
  5. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space between each piece.
  6. Cook for 12 minutes. Do not open the basket during this time.
  7. After 12 minutes, use tongs to flip the chicken thighs skin-side up. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175-180°F (79-82°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. The skin should be deep golden brown and crispy.
  8. Let the chicken rest on a wire rack or cutting board for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Notes

Pat the chicken extremely dry for maximum crispiness. Use aluminum-free baking powder to avoid a metallic taste. For best results, cook to an internal temperature of 175-180°F for tender, fall-apart meat. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken thighs, air fryer recipe, weeknight dinner, keto chicken, low carb chicken

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-juicy-recipe/