Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Crispy, Juicy, and Ready in 30 Minutes
Craving a quick, flavorful dinner? These air fryer chicken thighs are your answer! With a simple spice rub and minimal prep, you’ll have crispy, golden skin and juicy meat in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fuss-free meal, this recipe is a game-changer.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes.
- Mix the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season the Thighs: Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, then sprinkle and rub the spice mixture evenly over the skin and meat.
- Air Fry: Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, ensuring they don’t touch for even cooking. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
- Flip and Finish: Flip the thighs and cook for another 8–10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Quick Sides: Pair with roasted veggies, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes.
- Flavor Boost: Serve with a drizzle of hot sauce, chimichurri, or a squeeze of lemon.
- Meal Prep: Shred leftovers for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Tips for Success
- Dry for Crispiness: Patting the chicken dry is key to achieving that golden, crispy skin.
- Don’t Crowd: Leave space between thighs in the air fryer for proper air circulation.
- Customize the Seasoning: Swap paprika for smoked paprika or add cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This air fryer chicken thigh recipe is quick, easy, and delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The spices add bold flavor, and the air fryer ensures a perfect crispy texture every time. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any side, making it a weeknight staple.
Give these chicken thighs a try and let us know how they turn out! Share your creations on FACEBOOK or explore more easy recipes on our blog.
Serves 4. Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 18–20 minutes.
