Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Looking for a foolproof way to make juicy, crispy chicken thighs with minimal cleanup? This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe is exactly what you need! With just a handful of pantry spices and about 30 minutes, you’ll have flavorful chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No need to heat up the oven — your air fryer gets the job done faster with crispier results.

• Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay incredibly moist inside while the skin turns beautifully golden and crisp.

• Flavorful Seasoning: A simple blend of garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper adds just the right amount of savory depth.

Ingredients

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and gives the skin a nice head start on crisping up.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels — this helps the skin get extra crispy. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the chicken.

3. Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side down. Cook for 15 minutes, then flip and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully crisp.

4. Rest & Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking — this locks in the juices. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the basket — give each piece of chicken some breathing room so it cooks evenly.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.

• Experiment with spices — add cayenne for a kick or swap thyme for rosemary for a different twist.

Air fryer chicken thighs are a game-changer for home cooks. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep protein for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in so many kitchens!