Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a mouthwatering dish that’s both crispy and juicy? Look no further than these irresistible Air Fryer Chicken Thighs! In just 35 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a flavor-packed meal that will leave your family begging for seconds. With a perfectly seasoned crust and tender meat, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Get ready to impress your taste buds and discover the secret to perfectly cooked chicken thighs that will have everyone asking for your recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator and pat completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Drizzle olive oil over chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is lightly and evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken thighs, gently massaging the spices into the meat.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C), which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have space between them for proper air circulation.
- Cook chicken thighs for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning and crispy skin.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer - chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Once done, remove chicken thighs from air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Always start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve that coveted crispy skin by removing excess moisture.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken thighs thoroughly with the spice mix to maximize flavor.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer is essential for even cooking. Allow it to reach 380°F (193°C) before adding your chicken for optimal results.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures proper air circulation, leading to even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Serve your chicken thighs with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 394kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 90mg
