These Crispy Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer are everything you want—golden, crackly skin on the outside and juicy, tender meat inside. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve that perfect crisp without deep frying, while locking in flavor and moisture.
It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want a satisfying protein-packed dish.
Ingredients 🛒
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is key for getting crispy skin.
2. Season the Thighs
Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season evenly with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Onion powder
- Thyme
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 10 minutes, then flip skin-side up and cook for another 10–15 minutes until crispy and fully cooked.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Serve these crispy chicken thighs with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower
- Rice or quinoa
- Fresh salad
- Air fryer green beans or asparagus
Nutrition (Approximate per serving) 📊
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
✅ Pro Tip:
For extra crispy skin, cook the thighs an additional 2–3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) at the end.