These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are golden and crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. Ready in under 25 minutes, this easy air fryer chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or healthy family dinners. Simple seasonings, big flavor, and no oven required. Save this air fryer chicken thighs recipe for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – ready in under 25 minutes
- Family-friendly – crispy, juicy chicken everyone loves
- Budget-friendly – chicken thighs are affordable and flavorful
- Customizable – change seasonings to fit any cuisine
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (skin-on recommended for crispiness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
Optional Add-Ons
- Cayenne pepper (for heat)
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or thyme
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels (this is key for crispy skin).
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil and rub evenly on all sides.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Season chicken generously on all sides.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip skin-side up.
- Cook an additional 8–12 minutes, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy skin: Add ½ tsp baking powder to the seasoning mix.
- Boneless thighs: Reduce cook time by 3–5 minutes.
- Spicy version: Add cayenne or chili powder.
- Flavor swaps: Try lemon pepper, BBQ rub, or Cajun seasoning.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables or air fryer potatoes
- Pair with a fresh salad or coleslaw
- Use leftovers for wraps, bowls, or sandwiches
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (Juicy Inside) are the ultimate easy dinner—crispy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection every time. Whether for a quick family meal or weekly meal prep, this recipe delivers big results with minimal effort. Save, print, or share it for later.
FAQ Section
How do I make chicken thighs extra crispy in the air fryer?
Pat them very dry, use skin-on thighs, and cook at 400°F.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly.
What internal temperature should chicken thighs reach?
They should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Can I marinate the chicken first?
Absolutely marinate up to 24 hours, but pat dry before cooking.
How do I reheat air fryer chicken thighs?
Reheat at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to keep them crispy.