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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Thighs cooked in just 17 minutes. These juicy skin-on chicken thighs are seasoned with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then air fried to perfection for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs

  • 4 small chicken thighs (skin-on fillets)

Seasoning & Oil

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot enough for crispy skin and even cooking.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil. Then add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss everything together thoroughly to evenly coat the chicken with the spices and oil.
  3. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side up in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 12 minutes total, flipping the thighs halfway through cooking to promote even crisping. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy chicken. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make sure chicken thighs are small and skin-on for best texture and flavor.
  • Flipping the chicken halfway ensures even cooking and crispiness.
  • Resting the chicken before serving keeps it juicy.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.