Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats the ease and deliciousness of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. These juicy, flavorful thighs are a staple in my kitchen, delivering that perfect crispy skin without the fuss of deep frying. Plus, the air fryer makes cooking them a breeze, allowing for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why It’s My Go-To

The beauty of Air Fryer Chicken Thighs lies in their versatility and flavor. The combination of spices creates a savory crust that seals in the juices, resulting in succulent meat. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also cook in a fraction of the time compared to traditional roasting. Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving something comforting yet quick, these chicken thighs can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into a variety of dishes. Imagine the possibilities—served alongside a fresh salad, tossed in a pasta dish, or even shredded for tacos!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 4 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 2-2½ pounds)
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Appliances & Accessories

• Air Fryer: A must-have for this recipe, choose one with a large capacity for best results.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
• Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken with spices.
• Cooking Brush: Useful for applying oil evenly on the chicken skin.

Stepwise Method: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy skin.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are well mixed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and use your hands or a cooking brush to thoroughly coat each piece with the marinade. Make sure to get some of the spice mixture under the skin for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to create that crispy outer layer when the chicken is placed inside.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot. Enjoy them as they are or use them in another dish, like Bbq Chicken Bacon Pasta for a fun twist!

Substitutions by Diet

• Olive Oil: Replace with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Experiment with your favorite spice blends, such as Cajun or Moroccan, to suit your taste.
• Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer less fat.
• Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a stronger flavor.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Avoid placing too many chicken thighs in the basket at once. For optimal crispiness, cook in batches if necessary.
• Not Preheating: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking, so always preheat for the best results.
• Skipping the Drying Step: Make sure to dry the chicken well before oiling and seasoning to achieve that crispy skin.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through without drying it out.

Storage Pro Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious), store the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also shred the chicken and use it in dishes like Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole for a comforting meal later in the week.

Handy Q&A

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so start checking for doneness at around 20 minutes.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can substitute regular paprika or even chili powder for a different flavor, but smoked paprika adds a unique depth that’s hard to replicate.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken thighs?

Yes, cooked chicken thighs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What sides go well with air fryer chicken thighs?

These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You could even serve them with some roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Garlic Butter Chicken Wings
• Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta Casserole
• Bbq Chicken Bacon Pasta

Bring It to the Table

Your family and friends will rave about these Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, and you’ll love how easy they are to prepare! Not only are they perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, but they also make an impressive dish for gatherings or parties. The crispy skin and juicy meat are a surefire way to elevate any meal. Dive into this delightful recipe, and I promise, it won’t be long before it becomes a cherished favorite in your home. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!

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