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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs – Easy, Light & Flavorful Recipe

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These crispy air fryer chicken thighs are quick, easy, and unbelievably crunchy without all the oil. With simple pantry ingredients and a foolproof technique, you’ll get perfectly juicy, golden-brown chicken every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels, removing all moisture.
  3. In a small bowl, mix salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  4. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over the seasoned skin and rub gently to coat lightly.
  5. Place chicken in the air fryer basket skin-side down, leaving at least ½ inch of space between pieces.
  6. Cook for 12 minutes at 400°F without opening the basket.
  7. Flip the chicken thighs using tongs, being gentle to avoid tearing the skin.
  8. Cook for another 8-12 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 185°F (85°C) at the thickest part.
  9. Let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve immediately while the skin is still crispy.

Notes

Pat chicken completely dry for maximum crispiness. Let chicken come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. For larger thighs (over 8 oz), add 2-3 minutes cooking time. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, keto-friendly, low-carb chicken

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-light-and-flavorful-recipe/