Why Make This Recipe
Air fryer chicken thighs are a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal. Cooking with an air fryer gives the chicken a crispy texture without needing a lot of oil. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great choice for any meal.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning mixture evenly.
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Serve the air fryer chicken thighs hot, right after they finish cooking. They pair well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also slice them up and add them to tacos or sandwiches for a tasty twist.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
If you have leftover chicken thighs, allow them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning to help the skin get crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
- Experiment with different spices or marinades to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variation
You can easily switch up the seasonings to create different flavor profiles. For example, try adding Italian herbs or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer. Just increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes. -
What can I serve with chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs go well with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. -
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces chicken thighs Bone-in, skin-on preferred for crispiness
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps seasonings adhere and adds flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika For color and flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper Freshly ground preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Can substitute with other dried herbs
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning mixture evenly.
Cooking
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.