Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy meal that you can whip up in no time. Using an air fryer makes cooking juicy and tender chicken thighs simple and quick. This recipe brings together a few common ingredients to create a flavorful dish that your whole family will love!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Air Fryer Chicken Thighs is a great choice for several reasons. First, the air fryer cooks the chicken evenly and quickly, saving you time in the kitchen. Second, the skin gets nice and crispy while the meat stays juicy, giving you the best of both worlds. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with friends.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 skin-on, boneless chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
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Gather all ingredients and preheat an air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
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Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and brush skins with olive oil. Place chicken thighs, skin-side down, in a single layer on a plate.
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Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture evenly over the thighs. Turn the thighs over and evenly sprinkle with the remaining seasoning. Arrange thighs, skin-side up, in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
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Cook in the preheated air fryer until thighs are brown and the juices run clear, about 18 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
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Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
You can serve Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with a variety of sides. Some tasty options include roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Drizzle a little lemon juice on top for extra flavor, or enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool down and then place it in an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
- Make sure to space the chicken in the air fryer basket so that air can circulate evenly.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Variation
You can change the flavors by using different spices. Try using Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or even coconut aminos for a different twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just note that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
2. What can I do if my chicken is not crispy?
Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly before adding oil and seasoning. This helps achieve a crispier skin.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh. It should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).