Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Introduction

Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken without the mess of frying. This recipe uses simple spices to create a perfectly seasoned, juicy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

The image shows a close-up of four pieces of cooked chicken arranged on a white plate with brown speckles around the edges. Each piece has a golden to reddish-brown crispy skin with darker charred spots that add texture and depth. The chicken pieces include drumsticks and thighs, with the skin slightly wrinkled and glistening as if freshly cooked, and a few small green herb flakes scattered lightly on top and around the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm colors of the chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin get crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Rub the spice mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure to coat both the skin and the underside.
Step 4: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Step 6: Cook for 12 minutes, then flip the thighs skin-side up and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
Step 7: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispy skin, make sure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning and do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a spicy kick.
Bone-in thighs work best for juicy meat, but you can use boneless thighs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes to restore the crispiness of the skin, or warm in the oven.

How to Serve

Four pieces of roasted chicken with crisp, golden-brown skin covered in dark grilled spots and light seasoning are arranged closely together on a round white plate with some light speckles around the edges. The chicken has a slightly rough and textured surface from the char, showing a mix of bright orange and darker brown colors. The plate sits on a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used. Reduce the cooking time to around 15-18 minutes total, flipping halfway through and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 133 reviews

Crispy and juicy air fryer chicken thighs seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. This quick and easy recipe uses the air fryer to achieve perfectly cooked chicken with a deliciously crisp skin in under 25 minutes.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Thighs

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Seasoning

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. Place them in a large bowl.
Season the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and rub it in to coat thoroughly on all sides.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 12 minutes, then flip the chicken thighs skin-side up and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve crispier skin.
Adjust seasoning to taste or add your favorite herbs and spices.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked but not overdone.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, smoked paprika chicken, quick dinner, healthy chicken