Name: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon paprika; ½ tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 to 2 ½ pounds); 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Lemon wedges, for serving; Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 40 reviews

If you’ve been on the hunt for a tasty, foolproof way to get juicy, crispy chicken thighs without heating up your whole kitchen, you’re in for a treat. This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe brings together a smoky, savory blend of spices with the magic of the air fryer to deliver perfectly cooked chicken every single time. With its crackling skin and tender, flavorful meat, this dish will easily become a go-to for weeknight dinners or laid-back weekend feasts.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe a standout. Each item plays a key role—paprika adds a rich color and smoky depth, salt enhances flavor, and garlic powder brings that classic savory note. Together, they create a well-rounded, irresistible seasoning that complements the chicken’s natural goodness.

Paprika: Brings vibrant color and a mild smoky flavor to the chicken.
Smoked paprika: Adds an extra layer of smokiness for depth.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out natural flavors.
Garlic powder: Gives a classic garlicky punch without overpowering.
Ground black pepper: Offers a subtle heat and complexity.
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Perfect for juicy meat and crispy skin.
Extra virgin olive oil: Helps the spices stick and promotes crispiness.
Lemon wedges: Adds fresh brightness when served.
Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): For a touch of herbal freshness and color.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Chicken with the Spice Blend

Start off by mixing the paprika, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Pat your chicken thighs dry—that’s a crucial step to getting that irresistibly crispy skin—and toss them in the spice mixture together with the olive oil. Make sure each piece is fully coated so every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lay the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer inside the basket. It’s important they’re not touching to allow hot air to circulate freely. If you have more than four pieces, cook in batches to maintain that perfect crispiness.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

Cook the chicken for about 16 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. Use an instant-read thermometer to check—the internal temperature should hit 155 degrees Fahrenheit (68 degrees Celsius) because the thighs will continue cooking while resting.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes once cooked. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite juicy and tender. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro if you like a pop of color and herbal brightness.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe beautifully. A squeeze of lemon adds a fresh tang that cuts through the richness, while fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the plate and add a lovely contrast in color.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables to keep it balanced but tasty. For a lighter option, try quinoa or a refreshing cucumber salad to complement the smoky, juicy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve these chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy rice with a drizzle of your favorite sauce—perhaps a tangy yogurt-based dressing or a spicy harissa. Wrapping leftovers in warm tortillas with some avocado and crunchy slaw also makes for an unbeatable lunch or casual dinner idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay delicious and moist for up to 3 days when properly stored, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep your chicken longer, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer bag. Chicken thighs freeze well for up to 3 months, allowing you to pull out a flavorful protein option anytime you need a fast meal.

Reheating

To keep that fantastic crispy skin, reheat leftover chicken in the air fryer or oven rather than the microwave. Simply warm at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through—this method preserves texture and flavor much better than microwaving.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs give the best flavor and juiciness, boneless thighs will cook faster and are easier to eat. Just reduce cooking time slightly and keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If smoked paprika isn’t on hand, regular paprika works just fine. You might miss a hint of smoky flavor, but the rest of the seasoning will still shine and produce delicious results.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here—insert it into the thickest part of the thigh. Cooking until it reaches 155 degrees Fahrenheit is key, because the chicken will continue cooking while resting to the safe temperature of 165 degrees.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches so each piece crisps up evenly. Cooking times remain the same per batch.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Definitely! Marinating a few hours or even overnight with the spice blend and oil enhances flavor even more. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe is a wonderfully straightforward way to enjoy succulent, crispy chicken anytime you want with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want to impress with little fuss. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again due to its unbeatable flavor and ease of preparation!