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a platter of air fryer chicken thighs with a lemon and parsley as a garnish.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Author: Sheila Thigpen
These air fryer chicken thighs are surprisingly crispy with how little oil you need. Enjoy tender bites of poultry with a smoky citrus flavor for a simple weeknight meal. 
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Course Chicken
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 389 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • zest of ½ lemon
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs about 1 1/2 lbs.
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees for 5 minutes. 
  • In a small bowl, combine the spices — paprika, salt, garlic powder, pepper — then stir in the lemon zest with a fork.
  • Remove the chicken from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large bowl or gallon-size freezer bag and drizzle with the olive oil. Sprinkle the spice mixture on top and toss until evenly coated.
  • Place the chicken in the air fryer skin side down, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for 15 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.

Notes

Leftovers:

Once cooled, transfer the meat to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or pop it back in the air basket for 8 to 10 minutes at 400 degrees.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 389kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 40gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 218mgSodium: 454mg
Keyword air fryer recipe, chicken thighs, dinner tonight, easy recipe, how do I know when chicken thighs are done
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