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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy-skinned, incredibly juicy air fryer chicken thighs seasoned with a simple, savory spice rub. Ready in about 25 minutes with minimal prep—tender dark meat, golden crackly skin, and bold flavor. Healthier than pan-fried or oven-roasted, perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any time you want easy, delicious chicken. Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 22–28 minutes Total Time: ~30 minutes Servings: 4–6
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 –8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (about 2–3 lbs)
  • 1 –2 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano + basil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional add-ins
  • ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder for heat
  • Lemon zest or fresh herbs rosemary/thyme

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels (key for crispy skin). Trim excess fat if desired, but leave most skin intact.
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over thighs and rub to coat evenly on all sides.
  4. Sprinkle the spice mix generously over both sides, pressing it into the skin and under the skin where possible.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
  6. Place thighs skin-side up in a single layer in the basket (no overcrowding; cook in batches if needed).
  7. Air fry 22–28 minutes. Flip halfway through (around 11–14 minutes) and continue cooking.
  8. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part (avoid touching bone). Skin should be deep golden and crispy.
  9. Remove and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat very dry → essential for crispy skin.
Bone-in, skin-on gives best flavor and juiciness.
Don’t overcrowd basket—single layer for even crisp.
Use meat thermometer for perfect doneness and safety.
Resting 5 minutes keeps juices inside.
Customize: add cayenne for spice or brush with BBQ/honey garlic last 3–5 minutes.