Air frying bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is a great way to get crispy and delicious results without the need for deep frying. Here’s a simple recipe and some notes to help you make tasty chicken thighs in your air fryer:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes while you prepare the chicken thighs.
- Prepare the chicken thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, which is important for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush the chicken thighs with this mixture, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides.
- Air frying: Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up. You may need to do this in batches if your air fryer is small. Don’t overcrowd the basket, as this can result in uneven cooking.
- Cooking time: Cook the chicken thighs for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the thighs and the specific model of your air fryer.
- Check for doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Rest and serve: Once done, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
Notes:
- Marinating: If you have time, you can marinate the chicken thighs for 30 minutes to a few hours before air frying. This can enhance the flavor. Simply place the chicken in a resealable bag with the marinade and refrigerate.
- Spice it up: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can add cayenne pepper for some heat or other herbs and spices like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
- Crispy skin: To ensure the skin gets crispy, make sure the chicken thighs are dry when you start, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can run them through another cycle for a few more minutes.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs from the air fryer!
1. Brine the chicken: If you have the time, consider brining the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar. This helps make the meat juicier and more flavorful.
2. Use a meat rub: Instead of a liquid marinade, try a dry rub for added flavor. There are many pre-made spice rubs available, or you can make your own with your favorite herbs and spices.
3. Crispy skin trick: If you want exceptionally crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry and then lightly dust them with a thin layer of cornstarch or baking powder before air frying. This can help achieve an extra crispy texture.
4. Cooking time adjustments: The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs and your specific air fryer model. If you’re unsure, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
5. Boneless chicken thighs: If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can still use the air fryer for a healthier option. The cooking time will be shorter, usually around 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
6. Basting: During the cooking process, you can baste the chicken thighs with a bit of melted butter or olive oil to add extra moisture and flavor.
7. Finish with sauce: After air frying, you can toss the chicken thighs in your favorite sauce, such as barbecue, buffalo, or teriyaki, to add an extra layer of flavor.
8. Side dishes: Consider serving your air-fried chicken thighs with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, mac and cheese, or a simple green salad.
9. Air fryer size: The capacity of air fryers varies, so make sure to adjust the quantities and cooking time accordingly if you’re cooking for a larger group.
10. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and flavor profiles to create your own unique chicken thigh recipe. Air frying is a versatile cooking method that allows for creativity.
Remember to always follow safety guidelines when using your air fryer and ensure that chicken reaches the proper internal temperature to be safe to eat. Enjoy your delicious air-fried chicken thighs!
