Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Intensity: Easy
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help them crisp up in the air fryer.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
- Season the Chicken Thighs:
- Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, rubbing it into the skin and under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly.
- Cook the Chicken Thighs:
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side down.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, then flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Serve the chicken thighs with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.
Note: These air fryer chicken thighs are incredibly flavorful with a perfectly crispy skin and juicy interior. The combination of herbs and spices adds depth to the dish, making it a quick and easy meal that’s sure to satisfy. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.