These easy air fryer chicken thighs are perfect for a quick, delicious dinner. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfectly juicy, crispy and flavourful, they’re sure to become a family favourite.
Chicken thighs are a great low-cost option to regular chicken breast. Because they are dark meat they also have more flavour. You can try these curry chicken thighs and these slow cooker honey garlic thighs.
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⭐️ Why this recipe works
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Using the air fryer means less oil and healthier cooking.
- Flavourful: The combination of garlic powder, oregano, basil, and smoked paprika ensures a deliciously seasoned chicken.
- Versatile: These chicken thighs can be paired with various sides, making them a versatile meal option.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer method gives the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
🧾 Ingredients overview
- Chicken Thighs: Provides a tender and juicy base.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
- Dried Oregano: Gives a touch of earthiness.
- Dried Basil: Adds a slightly sweet, aromatic flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth and a hint of spice.
- Nonstick Cooking Spray (Olive Oil): Ensures the chicken doesn't stick to the air fryer basket and adds a light crisp.
For precise measurements and additional ingredients, refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
👩🏻🍳 Here's how to make it
Extra Crispy Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs recipe step-by-step
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 190ºC (350ºF) and let it preheat while you prepare the chicken.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a medium bowl, combine the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and smoked paprika.
- Season the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place the chicken thighs smooth-side down in the basket. Cook for 12 minutes, then use tongs to flip the chicken thighs. Continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 75ºC (165ºF).
📖 Variations
- Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts; adjust cooking time as needed.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cumin, chilli powder, or lemon pepper.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be used instead of dried ones.
- Marinade: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor.
- Breaded: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
💡 Chef's Guide: Expert Tips
Drawing on a decade of experience in Michelin-starred kitchens and Cordon Bleu training, I have compiled my top tips for recipe success.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75ºC (165ºF).
- Oil Spray: Lightly spray oil on the chicken thighs to enhance crispiness.
- Brining Chicken Thighs: For extra juicy chicken, consider brining the thighs in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes to an hour before seasoning and cooking.
- Crispy Skin Hack: To achieve extra crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning them.
- Basting: Halfway through cooking, you can baste the chicken with its juices to enhance flavor and moisture.
🍯 Storing and reheating leftovers
- Fridge: Store the cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 175ºC (350ºF) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
❓Recipe FAQ's
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or courgette (zucchini). Ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Yes, the air fryer method works well for other types of meat like chicken breasts, drumsticks, and even pork chops. Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed for different cuts.
If your chicken thighs vary in size, check the internal temperature of the smaller pieces first and remove them when done, allowing the larger pieces to cook longer as needed.
Looking for other chicken recipes like this? Try these:
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Unbelievably Easy Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 1 kg 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon nonstick cooking spray, olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 190ºC (350ºF) and let it preheat while you prepare the chicken.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a medium bowl, combine the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and smoked paprika.
- Season the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss well to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Cook the Chicken:
- Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken thighs smooth-side down in the basket.
- Cook for 12 minutes, then use tongs to flip the chicken thighs.
- Continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 75ºC (165ºF).
Notes
- Ensure Full Cooking: Each air fryer model may vary, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75ºC (165ºF) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Alternative to Cooking Spray: If you prefer, you can brush the air fryer basket with olive or vegetable oil instead of using nonstick cooking spray.
- Customise Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herb and spice ratios to your taste. For an extra kick, add a pinch of chilli powder.
Nutrition
Meet the Chef!
Hi, I'm Debs, a Cordon Bleu-trained chef dedicated to helping you create unforgettable meals on a budget. Discover more about my journey and dive into a world of foolproof recipes designed for those who love to eat well without overspending.
Debra Schmidt
This is an excellent recipe!
Chicken is delicious, and it was so easy! Thank you!
Deborah Rainford
So happy you loved this recipe. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, it's so appreciated. 🙂
steveo
Such a great recipe!
Jessica
I don't have a air frier bug enough, will these be okay in the oven?
Deborah Rainford
Absolutely! You can do them in the oven or if your air fryer is a little bit smaller you can do them in two batches. Completely up to you. 🙂
Chantelle Gawler
Awesome chicken recipe! I paired this with herby rice and roasted asparagus. Definitely will keep this on dinner rotation!
Deborah Rainford
So happy that you loved it! Thanks so much for leaving a comment and a rating. It's so appreciated! 🙂