Description
This recipe for Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs delivers perfectly cooked, juicy chicken with a crispy skin in under 30 minutes. Using a flavorful dry rub with garlic, paprika, thyme, and brown sugar, these chicken thighs are air fried to golden perfection for an easy, healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs. bone-in chicken thighs (about 4 skin-on thighs)
Dry Rub
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Non-stick cooking spray (for air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF and spray the inside of the basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make dry rub: In a bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and brown sugar, mixing until well blended.
- Season chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and evenly sprinkle the dry rub over all sides of the chicken, ensuring full coverage.
- Arrange and oil: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the air fryer basket. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken. Depending on your air fryer size, cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry the chicken: Cook the thighs for 8 minutes, then flip them over and air fry for an additional 8 minutes. Check the internal temperature—when it reaches between 160ºF and 165ºF and the skin is crispy, remove the chicken. For extra crispiness, air fry for 1-2 more minutes.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken thighs rest for 3 to 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before enjoying.
Notes
- Ensure chicken thighs are patted dry for a crispier skin.
- Cooking time may vary based on air fryer model and size of chicken thighs.
- If cooking in batches, keep the finished chicken warm in a low oven while the next batch cooks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American