Print

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

These air fryer chicken thighs are irresistibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, seasoned with a blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers comfort food with less mess and healthier results.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Trim excess fat if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken thighs, including under the skin. Let the seasoned chicken rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through (at about 10 minutes), until the skin is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a wire rack or plate and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Preheating the air fryer helps jumpstart the crisping process. Tuck some herbs under the skin for extra flavor. Avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking. Use a thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through. Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. For extra crispy skin, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, herb chicken, easy dinner, gluten-free, keto, comfort food, weeknight meal, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-recipe-best-herb-seasoning-for-juicy-dinner/