Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and fuss-free chicken recipe, these Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a must-try! With juicy, tender meat and irresistibly crispy skin, this dish is packed with zesty lemon pepper seasoning and aromatic spices. Best of all, the air fryer does most of the work, delivering perfectly cooked chicken in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Juicy & Crispy – The air fryer locks in moisture while crisping up the skin.
✔️ Bold Flavor – A tangy, peppery, and slightly smoky spice blend coats every bite.
✔️ Easy & Quick – Minimal prep, no marinating needed, and fast cooking time.
✔️ Versatile – Great for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 3-5 minutes.

2️⃣ Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels (this helps achieve crispy skin!).
• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.

3️⃣ Season the Chicken

Rub the spice paste all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated, including under the skin.

4️⃣ Air Fry to Perfection

• Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, in a single layer (avoid overcrowding).
• Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is golden and crispy.
• Check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for extra brightness.
• Serve with lemon wedges on the side and your favorite sides (try roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad).

Pro Tips

🔹 For Extra Crispy Skin: Spray the chicken lightly with oil before air frying.
🔹 Adjust Cooking Time: Larger thighs may need 2-3 extra minutes.
🔹 Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs recipe is a game-changer for busy nights when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort. The air fryer delivers perfectly crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside chicken every time!