Irresistible Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy 5-Ingredient Recipe
This recipe delivers juicy, crispy chicken thighs with just five simple ingredients, cooked quickly in an air fryer for a fuss-free, flavorful dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (preferably smaller thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute with avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over the thighs. Sprinkle smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly. Toss well to coat all surfaces.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Flip the thighs skin side down and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer (should read 165°F/74°C) or cut a small slit to ensure juices run clear.
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat chicken skin dry before seasoning for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy skin. Preheat the air fryer for optimal texture. Flip chicken halfway through cooking. Use a thermometer to check for doneness. If skin is not crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18
- Protein: 25
Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, 5-ingredient chicken, healthy chicken, gluten-free chicken