Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare juicy, crispy-skinned chicken thighs using your air fryer. Marinated with a zesty lemon juice and a blend of herbs and spices, these chicken thighs cook to golden perfection in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for four people.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
Marinade and Seasoning:
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to create a seasoned marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub the marinade evenly over all sides of the chicken, ensuring full coverage. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken Thighs: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 18 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: After 18 minutes, flip the chicken thighs to skin-side up and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even air circulation and crisping.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the size of the chicken thighs and air fryer model.
- Optionally, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Resting the meat after cooking helps retain moisture.
