Juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, these air fryer chicken thighs are packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Using just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious, low-effort dinner any night of the week.
Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin
Servings
4
servingsPrep time
5
minutesCooking time
22
minutesCalories per serving
290
kcalIngredients
4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5–2 lbs. total)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Prepare the Air Fryer:
– Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray and preheat to 400°F (200°C). - Season the Chicken:
– Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels for extra crispy skin. Place in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly. - Cook in the Air Fryer:
– Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 12 minutes, flip, and cook for another 10 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). - Rest and Serve:
– Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before serving to lock in juices. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer:
to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally — this guarantees juiciness without overcooking. - Don’t overcrowd the basket:
air circulation is key to getting that crispy skin. - Experiment with seasonings:
like smoked paprika, cayenne, or lemon zest for a personal twist.
This air fryer chicken thigh recipe is a simple, satisfying meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether paired with a salad, roasted veggies, or your favorite side, it’s a go-to dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy.