Name: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs – Super Crispy Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-492336H40M7S
Total time: PT-492336H40M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat and skin; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

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Introduction

These air fryer chicken thighs come out super crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. With simple seasonings and quick cooking, this recipe is perfect for a fuss-free meal that feels special. You’ll love how easy it is to get that golden, crunchy skin every time.

Four pieces of crispy cooked chicken thighs sit inside a metal air fryer basket with a mesh bottom. The chicken skin is golden brown with dark brown crisp spots and specks of seasoning, showing a slightly oily texture. The chicken pieces are evenly spaced, filling the basket. The metal basket has small square holes and dark edges. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (trimmed of excess fat and skin)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 5 minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray if you like.
Step 2: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl with a lid. Add the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and onion powder. Shake or toss well to evenly coat the chicken.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the bag and arrange the thighs in the air fryer basket skin side down. Cook for 12 minutes.
Step 4: Flip the chicken thighs skin side up and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. For extra crispiness, continue cooking in 4-minute increments until the skin reaches your desired crunch.
Step 5: Check doneness with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh—it should read 165°F. Cooking times may vary based on thigh size and air fryer model. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For even crispier skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Let the seasoned chicken rest for 10 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavors.
If your air fryer basket is small, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure crispiness.

Storage

Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes to help maintain the crispy skin, or use a conventional oven at 375°F for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy skin.

How to Serve

Four pieces of cooked chicken thighs with golden brown and crispy skin inside a black air fryer basket with a mesh bottom. Each piece has a slightly different shape with specks of seasoning on the surface, showing some charred edges and a crispy texture. The basket is inside the air fryer, with a dark interior and metal sides visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used but reduce the cooking time by about 5 minutes. Check for doneness with a thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Do I need to flip the chicken during cooking?

Flipping helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps the skin crispy all around. Cook skin side down first, then flip skin side up for best results.