This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy. These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs have quickly become a favorite in my home for weeknight dinners. They're so easy to make and come out perfectly crispy every time, making them a go-to recipe when I need something quick and delicious!
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a breeze to prepare and offer so much flexibility with spices to suit your taste preferences. Plus, they're great for feeding a small family or a larger group – just adjust the portion sizes accordingly! I like to pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone enjoys.
Chicken Thigh Ingredients
For these Chicken Thighs, you'll need bone-in thighs with the skin on. If you prefer boneless, just remember to adjust the cooking time. Once they're cooked through to 165°F, they're ready to enjoy! Enhance the flavor with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a blend of spices like salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder, sweet paprika, and dried herbs, such as herbs de Provence.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
To whip up these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, start by seasoning the thighs with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a generous sprinkle of your chosen spices. Make sure to rub the spices in well to ensure they coat each piece evenly.
Then, pop them into the air fryer at 400°F for about 24 minutes, remembering to flip them over halfway through for even cooking. If your air fryer isn't big enough to fit all six thighs at once, no worries – just cook them in batches to ensure they all come out perfectly crispy!
Are chicken thighs still healthy?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs do contain more fat and calories compared to chicken breasts, they're still a nutritious choice loaded with protein and essential nutrients. And let's be honest, they're often more flavorful and juicy too! Personally, I'm a fan of the skin for that extra bit of flavor, but if you're watching your calorie intake, you can enjoy them without it. Cooking them in an air fryer is a fantastic option for keeping them healthy since it requires minimal to no oil, maintaining all that delicious flavor without the extra calories.
What Side Dishes Complement Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
When I make these succulent chicken thighs, I like to complement them with a vibrant green salad and a side of veggies. Options like roasted butternut squash, shredded brussels sprouts, or roasted green beans really round out the meal nicely. They'd also pair well with a hearty quinoa salad, a comforting bowl of tomato soup, or even some pasta for a more filling dinner option. The possibilities are endless!
Yields: 6 pieces, Serving Size: 1 thigh
Equipment:
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and with skin
- 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs, like herbs de provence or dried oregano
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken with the juice from half of the lemon, making sure to coat both sides evenly with the remaining spices.
- Rub the seasoning mixture thoroughly into the chicken to ensure it's well coated.
- Transfer the seasoned chicken to the air fryer, placing it skin side down.
- Air fry at 400°F for about 12 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on it until it turns golden and crispy, and make sure it's cooked through in the center.
- Once done, serve and enjoy your deliciously crispy air fryer chicken thighs!
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