Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with golden, crispy skin made quickly and easily in the air fryer. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (~1.5 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a spicy kick
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Notes & Substitutions:
- Boneless thighs reduce cooking time by 3–5 minutes.
- Use regular paprika if smoked is unavailable.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season: Rub chicken with olive oil. Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using). Massage evenly into chicken.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Air Fry – First Side: Place chicken skin-side down in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12 minutes.
- Air Fry – Second Side: Flip chicken so skin side is up. Cook 10–13 more minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden.
- Rest & Serve: Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley and serve.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the crispiest results and juicy meat.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help the skin crisp up in the air fryer.
- Season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for classic flavor.
- Lightly spray with oil to promote even browning.
- Cook at 380–400°F and flip halfway for evenly crispy skin.
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe cooking.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer to re-crisp.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal |Carbohydrates: 2 g |
Fiber: 0 g |
Sugars: 0 g |
Protein: 32 g |
Fat: 31 g |
Saturated Fat: 8 g |
Cholesterol: 165 mg |
Sodium: 420 mg |
Potassium: 410 mg |
Calcium: 20 mg |
Iron: 1.8 mg