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Thomas Baker

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Weeknight Dinner

Enjoy perfectly crispy air fryer chicken thighs with a simple seasoning blend for an easy dinner that's perfect for any weeknight meal or family dinner. This quick chicken dinner recipe is a great addition to your air fryer recipes collection and delivers delicious, juicy chicken with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 573
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs. bone-in chicken thighs, We used 4 bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs from Trader Joe's
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Method
 

  1. Heat your air fryer to 400ºF and lightly coat the basket with non-stick spray.
  2. Combine garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and brown sugar thoroughly in a mixing bowl.
  3. Dry the chicken thighs with paper towels then evenly rub the seasoning mixture over each piece.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket and drizzle them with olive oil; cook in batches if needed.
  5. Cook the chicken for 8 minutes, flip the pieces, then continue cooking for another 8 minutes.
  6. Check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches between 160ºF and 165ºF and that the skin is nicely crisped; cook 1-2 more minutes if you want crunchier skin.
  7. Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Alternative cooking methods include Instant Pot, stovetop, or oven as described in the tips. Cooking times vary with the method used. Store leftovers refrigerated and reheat thoroughly before serving.