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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Garlic Herb Seasoning Recipe

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with a simple garlic herb blend, cooked quickly in the air fryer for a flavorful and easy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds / 700900 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked if possible
  • Optional: lemon zest from 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, dried thyme, crushed dried rosemary, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub evenly to coat all sides.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over the skin and under it if possible, pressing lightly to adhere.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place the chicken thighs skin side up in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through cooking (around 9-10 minutes).
  8. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the chicken thighs and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is crucial for crispiness. Seasoning under the skin enhances flavor. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning. If chicken isn’t crisping well, try drying skin more or spraying oil halfway through cooking. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leftovers reheat best in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic herb chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, healthy chicken, gluten-free chicken