Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick and delicious way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken with minimal effort. This recipe uses simple spices to create a flavorful crust while keeping the meat tender and moist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 3 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1 1/4 lbs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tbsp baking powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5-6 minutes before cooking.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, pepper, cumin, salt, and baking powder.
3. Step 3: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture, then coat both sides evenly with olive oil.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken thighs, rubbing it in for full coverage.
5. Step 5: Arrange the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
6. Step 6: Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
7. Step 7: Carefully flip the thighs using tongs and continue cooking for another 6-10 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned.
8. Step 8: Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches at least 165°F. For preferred flavor and texture, you may cook them to 185-195°F.
9. Step 9: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips & Variations

• Patting the chicken dry is key to getting crispy skin in the air fryer.
• Adding baking powder helps to crisp the skin without drying out the meat.
• Try substituting smoked paprika for regular paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for added brightness.

Storage

Store cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness, or warm gently in the microwave if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used, though cooking time will be shorter. Check for doneness earlier, usually around 8-12 minutes total at 400°F.

Do I need to flip the chicken during cooking?

Flipping helps ensure even cooking and crispy skin on both sides, so it is recommended for the best results.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 149 reviews

Crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a hint of baking powder for extra crispiness. This easy-to-make recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with a perfectly browned skin in under 30 minutes using the air fryer.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 16-20 minutes
• Total Time: 26-30 minutes
• Yield: 3 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Thighs

• 3 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1 1/4 lbs)

Seasoning Mix

• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tbsp baking powder

Other

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: For best results, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 5-6 minutes before cooking. This ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, helping to achieve a crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, pepper, cumin, salt, and baking powder. The baking powder helps crisp the skin when air fried.
3. Prepare the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs on a clean plate and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Coat both sides evenly with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and promote browning.
4. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs. Rub the spices into the skin to ensure an even, flavorful coating.
5. Cook the Chicken (First Side): Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 10 minutes to start crisping the skin and cooking the meat.
6. Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully turn the chicken thighs over using tongs. Cook for an additional 6-10 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned to your liking.
7. Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken thighs should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. For a more tender and flavorful result, some prefer cooking to 185-195°F (85-90°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken thighs!

Notes

• Patting chicken dry is essential to get crispy skin.
• Baking powder in the seasoning helps achieve a crispier crust.
• Adjust cooking time based on the size of your chicken thighs and air fryer model.
• Always check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
• Resting chicken after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.

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