Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for a delicious yet simple family dinner, look no further than Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs. These juicy, flavorful pieces of chicken are coated in a delightful blend of spices, and the air fryer ensures they come out perfectly crispy every time. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Plus, the air fryer makes it easy to achieve that coveted crunch without deep frying, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What truly sets these Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs apart is the combination of the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and the careful seasoning blend that enhances the natural flavors of the meat. The air fryer locks in moisture while rendering the fat from the skin, creating an irresistible crispy exterior. This method not only saves time but also delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Additionally, the versatility of serving these thighs with various sides, such as Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries or a fresh salad, makes this dish perfect for any occasion.
What You’ll Gather
- 2 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken thighs: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and moisture.
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking, it keeps the chicken moist and helps the skin crisp up.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a savory aroma.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp sea salt (to taste): Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
What’s in the Gear List
- Air Fryer: The key appliance for achieving crispy results without the excess oil.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the seasoning and oil.
- Tongs: Useful for flipping and removing the chicken safely.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but recommended for checking doneness (165°F).
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Place the chicken in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt. Pour this mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps to kickstart the cooking process and ensures the thighs cook evenly.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Air fry the chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the thighs, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked through and crispy, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan.
Substitutions by Diet
- Avocado oil: Can be substituted with olive oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference; cayenne pepper can add a kick!
- Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken drumsticks can be used.
Errors to Dodge
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy skin.
- Ensure the chicken is properly dried before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Neglecting to preheat the air fryer can result in longer cooking times and less crispy skin.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To rewarm, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but they may cook faster, so be sure to check for doneness early.
What should I serve with Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even some mashed potatoes.
How can I ensure my chicken thighs are crispy?
Make sure to pat the chicken dry, use enough oil, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Preheating the air fryer also helps achieve that crispy texture.
Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A perfect side for your crispy chicken.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: For those nights when you crave something cheesy and delicious.
- Roasted broccoli or green beans: Simple and nutritious additions.
- Quinoa or rice: A wholesome base to complement the chicken.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs, consider experimenting with different seasonings or serving them with various sides. This recipe is not just a quick dinner but a versatile one that can easily fit into your meal rotation. Let your creativity shine in the kitchen, and enjoy the delightful crunch and savory flavor of these chicken thighs!
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Place the chicken in a mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together the avocado oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and sea salt. Pour this mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step helps to kickstart the cooking process and ensures the thighs cook evenly.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation.
- Air fry the chicken thighs for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the thighs, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Once cooked through and crispy, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan.
Notes
- Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To rewarm, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for the best results.
- Using a meat thermometer can ensure your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature (165°F).
