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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Easy 20-Minute Dinner

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Achieve shatteringly crisp skin and juicy meat with this easy air fryer chicken thigh recipe. Using a simple dry rub and the secret to drying the skin, this weeknight dinner is ready in about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (uniform size)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or high-smoke point oil)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder or cornstarch (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Pat chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
  3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and arrowroot powder (if using).
  4. Place chicken in a bowl, drizzle with oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle with spice mix and rub into the skin.
  5. Optional: Place seasoned thighs on a plate and refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes to further dry the skin.
  6. Arrange chicken thighs in the air fryer basket skin-side up, ensuring they are not touching.
  7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes without opening the basket.
  8. Flip the thighs and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove from air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip drying the chicken; moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure proper air circulation. If spices start burning, lower the temperature to 380°F for the second half of cooking. Chicken thighs are safe at 165°F but can be pulled at 160°F for extra juiciness as they carry over cook.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, crispy chicken thighs, weeknight dinner, healthy air fryer recipes, quick chicken dinner, gluten-free chicken

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