Air Fryer Chicken Thighs come out crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and are super easy to make—perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor; boneless works too)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: chili flakes, lemon juice, or your favorite seasoning blend
Instructions
1. Prep
- Pat chicken dry (this helps crisp the skin)
- Rub with olive oil
2. Season
- Mix spices and coat the chicken evenly
3. Air fry
- Preheat air fryer to 180°C (360°F)
- Place thighs skin-side down first
- Cook 12 minutes, then flip
- Cook another 10–15 minutes until golden and crispy
Internal temp should reach 75°C (165°F)
Pro Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—airflow = crispiness
- For extra crispy skin, cook last 2–3 minutes at 200°C (400°F)
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving
Flavor Variations
- Honey Garlic: Brush with honey + garlic in last 5 minutes
- BBQ: Add sauce at the end so it doesn’t burn
- Spicy: Add cayenne or hot sauce
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest + thyme
What to Serve With
- Roasted veggies or a fresh salad
- Rice or mashed potatoes
- Garlic bread or coleslaw