If you’ve been searching for a way to make chicken thighs that are both crispy and juicy, look no further. This air fryer recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal that’s full of flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner, these chicken thighs will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Begin by squeezing the juice from half a lemon over the chicken thighs to coat them thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, sweet paprika, and any preferred dried herbs, making sure to rub the spices evenly over the surface.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, then place the chicken thighs in the basket, skin side down. Cook them for 12 minutes.
- After 12 minutes, flip the chicken thighs over and continue cooking for another 12 minutes. Ensure the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Ingredients
- Bone-in chicken thighs with skin on (quantity based on number of servings)
- Juice from half a lemon
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Sweet paprika
- Dried herbs, such as herbs de Provence
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1278 kcal | Carbohydrates: 9 g | Protein: 96 g | Fat: 93 g | Saturated Fat: 24 g | Sodium: 1578 mg
FAQ
- Are chicken thighs a healthy choice?
- Chicken thighs are indeed a nutritious option, even though they contain more fat and calories compared to chicken breasts. They are high in protein and other nutrients, and many people find them more flavorful. If you’re mindful of calorie intake, consider removing the skin. Air frying is a healthy cooking method as it requires little to no oil.
- What sides go well with Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
- These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a large green salad and vegetables like roasted butternut squash, shredded Brussels sprouts, or roasted green beans. They also complement dishes like quinoa salad, tomato soup, or pasta.
- How do you prepare Air Fryer Chicken Thighs?
- Start by squeezing lemon juice over the thighs, then season them with spices. Rub the spices in well. Cook the thighs in the air fryer at 400°F for 24 minutes, flipping halfway through. If your air fryer is small, cook them in batches.
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but you will need to reduce the cooking time. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- What other chicken recipes can I try in the air fryer?
- Some other delicious air fryer chicken recipes to try include Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich with Sriracha Mayo, Cilantro Lime Chicken Breast, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, and Bacon-Wrapped Air Fryer Chicken Breast.
Tips
- If using boneless chicken thighs, remember to reduce the cooking time as they cook faster than bone-in thighs. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For added flavor, experiment with different spice blends. You can easily switch up the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- To achieve a crispy skin, make sure to air fry the chicken thighs skin side down for the first half of the cooking time.
- If you’re preparing a large batch and can’t fit all the thighs in your air fryer at once, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
