Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Tired of feeling like a soggy noodle after a long day? Ditch the takeout and give your taste buds a treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Our air fryer’s got your back with these crispy, juicy air-fryer chicken thighs. They’re so straightforward, you could practically cook them with your eyes closed (do not try this at home). Just pop ’em in the air fryer, then kick back and binge-watch your favorite show. Your stomach will thank you, and your couch potato self will rejoice.

What stands out

The secret to juicy, crispy chicken? A little bit of science and a lot of love. The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a crispy exterior while locking in the natural juices of the chicken. The result? A burst of flavor in every bite. So, next time you’re craving a and straightforward meal, give these air fryer chicken thighs a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

How to Prepare

Place the chicken in a bowl and add the olive oil and lemon zest.

Season with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and onion powder.

Using clean hands or tongs, mix to distribute the spices.

Cook the chicken in a 360F (182°C) air fryer until crispy, about 20 minutes, depending on the thickness and size of the chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Garnish with parsley and fresh lemon juice, if desired, and enjoy.

Kitchen tip

You can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, for just a few hours, or you can cook it right away.

Swaps

1. Feel free to use any seasonings you love here, such as red pepper flakes, dried thyme, dried basil, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
2. You can use any cut of chicken you prefer, just adjust the baking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If you like your chicken sweet or sticky add a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a tablespoon of brown sugar to the mix.
4. You can give this recipe an Asian-inspired twist by adding a splash of soy sauce to the marinade as well as a little grated ginger and sesame oil.

Equipment Notes

We love using this air-fryer to make juicy, crispy chicken thighs during the week. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these chicken thighs on a parchment paper– or baking mat-lined baking sheet in an oven preheated to 400F (200C).

Serve it with

• A big, beautiful salad such as our Simple Green Salad or Green Goddess Salad.
• A slice of warm, crusty homemade Bread.
• Our Crispy Parmesan Potatoes or Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes are the side dish with juicy chicken.
• Serve these chicken thighs with a side of fluffy rice.
• Use this chicken all week long in a power bowl, or rice bowl, or to add protein to salads for lunch.

Questions

can we use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase slightly. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

can we use chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yes, but chicken breasts may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

can we cook this recipe in the oven instead of air-fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these chicken thighs on a mark parchment paper – or baking mat-lined mark baking sheet in an oven preheated to 400F (200C).

how do we know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a mark meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

strong Can we add other spices?

Of course! Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes can be great additions for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Makes 2 portions

• 5 chicken thighs, boneless, skinless
• 2.5 teaspoons olive oil
• ½ lemon, zested
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• dried oregano, to taste
• paprika, to taste
• onion powder, to taste
• fresh parsley, optional
• fresh lemon juice, optional

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Measuring Cups + Spoons
• Mixing Bowls
• Zester

Method

1. Place the chicken in a bowl and add the olive oil and lemon zest. Season to taste with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and onion powder. Using clean hands or tongs, mix to distribute the spices. You can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for a few hours or up to overnight. Additionally, you can also cook it right away.
2. Cook the chicken in a 360F (182°C) air fryer until crispy, about 20 minutes, depending on the thickness and size of the chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake these on a parchment paper- or baking mat-lined baking sheet, in an oven preheated to 400F (200C).
4. Garnish with parsley and fresh lemon juice, if desired, and enjoy.