Description
These extra-crispy air fryer chicken thighs are a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner solution. With just five ingredients and about 25 minutes of total time, you get juicy meat with shatteringly crisp skin without the mess of deep frying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Place the dry chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Massage the seasoning into the chicken, ensuring every surface is coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Cook for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through at the 10-minute mark.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Notes
Do not skip patting the chicken dry; moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this will steam the chicken instead of crisping it. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in two batches. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 thighs per serving
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 28
Keywords: air fryer chicken, crispy chicken thighs, healthy dinner, quick weeknight meals, high protein, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto-friendly