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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Kid-Approved Dinner

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This crispy air fryer chicken thighs recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and a foolproof technique, you’ll get golden, crunchy skin and juicy meat every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 3/4 teaspoon table salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works well)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Remove chicken thighs from package and pat dry with paper towels. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Season the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Add chicken thighs and toss until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange the chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch space between each piece. Do not overcrowd.
  5. Cook the first side: Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes. Do not open the basket during this time.
  6. Flip and cook the second side: Using tongs, flip each thigh so skin-side is up. Air fry for another 8-10 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 175-185°F in the thickest part (not touching bone).
  7. Rest the chicken: Remove from air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken very dry for crispiest skin. Let chicken come to room temperature before cooking. Flip only once. Use a thermometer for best results; cook to 175-185°F for juiciest meat. For batch cooking, keep finished thighs warm in a 200°F oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, kid-friendly chicken, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-kid-approved-dinner/