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CRISPY AIR FRYER CHICKEN THIGHS centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Olivia Farnsworth

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Weeknight Dinner

Enjoy perfectly crispy skin on chicken thighs with this easy dinner recipe made in your air fryer! It's a quick chicken dinner option that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a family dinner. This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe is one of the best air fryer recipes you'll try for a flavorful and fast meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 573
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. bone-in chicken thighs, We used 4 bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs from Trader Joe's
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

  1. Set your air fryer to 400ºF and lightly coat the basket with non-stick spray.
  2. Combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and brown sugar in a bowl and stir well.
  3. Dry the chicken thighs using paper towels, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over each piece.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, drizzle olive oil on top; you may need to cook in batches.
  5. Cook for 8 minutes, then flip the chicken and air fry for another 8 minutes.
  6. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature between 160ºF and 165ºF and the skin is crispy; if needed, cook for an extra 1-2 minutes for more crispiness.
  7. Allow the chicken to rest for about 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Other cooking methods include Instant Pot, stovetop, or oven if you prefer. For stovetop, sear chicken over high heat then cover and cook on low/medium heat for 10-15 minutes. Oven roasting at 400ºF for 30-35 minutes is also delicious. For Instant Pot, sear the chicken then pressure cook for 5 minutes with a quick release.