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If you’re looking for crispy air-fried chicken thighs that deliver perfectly crisp, you’re in luck! I’ll show you how to make the best chicken thighs in the air fryer, with a smoky, savory flavor and a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat. Ready in less than 20 minutes!
One thing I’ve learned over the years as a recipe developer is that sometimes the simplest recipes require the most experimentation. And that was definitely true for these Salted Air Fry Chicken Thighs! I’ve tested different spices, different temperatures and cooking times, boneless and bone-in, and I’ve done it all to nail down the best method for you. Like me Air fry chicken breastThis recipe is a great weeknight dinner staple!
3 secrets that make these air fried chicken legs the best
I love chicken thighs because unlike chicken breasts that can be thin, chicken thighs are almost impossible to overcook and are always tender and juicy. Here’s what makes these chicken thighs the best you’ll ever make (I promise!).
- Dry chicken means crispy chicken. Patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel makes all the difference. Otherwise, the oil will retain moisture and the chicken won’t cook. (And the grilled chicken is the main point!)
- Spices are everything. Chicken thighs are flavored with just salt and pepper, but the right mix of spices takes things to another level. I use savory, earthy and smoky spices for lots of oomph.
- There is no pinching on the oil. I know it’s nice to go too light on the oil when air-frying, but using 2 tablespoons will coat the chicken thighs well, which will give you the best results.
What you need
Aside from the chicken, you only need a short list of pantry staples. Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements.
- Chicken thighs – I like to use boneless skinless chicken thighs, but you can use skin on even for dry chicken.
- olive oil – As explained, the oil is important for a golden, smooth exterior; It also helps the spices stick.
- Seasoning mix – In this recipe I use garlic powder, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, sea salt, ground black pepper and dried parsley.
How to make crispy air fried chicken thighs
This recipe couldn’t be easier! Here’s a visual overview of the steps involved.
- Preheat the air conditioner. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Prepare the chicken. Dry the chicken thighs with a paper towel and place them in a large bowl.
- Fry the chicken. Add the olive oil and all the spices to the bowl. Fry well until each piece is coated with oil and spices mixture.
- Water fry. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in an air fryer. Cook, turning halfway through, until chicken is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, 11 to 13 minutes.
- Rest and serve. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer
These simple tips will help your chicken become perfect.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. It is better to cook the chicken in batches rather than cramming the chicken thighs so that there is no room for air to circulate. That air circulation is what makes the chicken thighs crispy.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done when the thickest part reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May he rest. A few minutes of rest will help the juices to redistribute, so when you cut the chicken, it won’t all go in.
More spice ideas
Want to try a different spice option? Here are some more ideas:
Serving suggestions
My favorite thing about air fryer chicken thighs is that they pair well with almost any side dish and so many different dishes. Try the following:
Storage and reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. (I like to cut the chicken into pieces to use for meal prep lunches!)
- to reheat; Heat the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for 3 to 5 minutes, or until heated through and cooked through.
- Refrigerator: Freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
More easy chicken recipes
press release
Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crisp every time, this easy dry air fryer chicken thighs recipe is ready in under 20 minutes!
- Preheat an air fryer to 400°F.
- Add chicken thighs to a large bowl. Dry them with a paper towel.
- Add your spice mix with the olive oil to the bowl with the chicken. Using your hands or a pair of tongs, rub the thighs with the spices until they are well covered.
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket and cook for 11-13 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through.