When it’s 5:00 PM and the dinner dilemma strikes, these air fryer chicken thighs swoop in like the hero you didn’t know you needed. Juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and seasoned to perfection with smoky paprika and garlic, this dish is your new go-to for a no-fuss, flavour-packed meal.

We’re talking minimal ingredients, quick prep, and a result that tastes like you spent hours—when in reality, it’s just 30 minutes, tops. Whether you’re juggling homework help or need something satisfying after a long workday, this easy dinner is made for real life. Plus, it’s a healthy air fryer recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

If you love crispy chicken with tender dark meat, this one’s for you. Chicken thighs are naturally flavorful, and the air fryer works magic on that skin—crispy without all the extra oil.

Highlights:

Uses bone-in, skin-on thighs for max flavor
Quick and easy—done in 30 minutes
A healthier take on fried chicken
Perfectly seasoned with pantry staples
Kid-friendly and weeknight approved

Ingredients

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approx. 800 g)
1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika
1 tsp (5 g) garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in a bowl and rub all over with olive oil.
Season: Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently lift the skin and season underneath too for deeper flavor.
Air fry – Part 1: Place thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Flip and crisp: Cook for 11–12 minutes, then flip and cook another 11–13 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp, and the internal temp hits 175°F (79°C).
Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Tips for Crispy, Flavorful Thighs

Dry skin is key! The drier the skin before cooking, the crispier it gets.
Don’t crowd the basket. Air needs to circulate for even cooking and crisping.
Use a meat thermometer. It’s the easiest way to get juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Mix it up. Try swapping paprika for chili powder or tossing in some Italian herbs.

Olivia’s Weeknight Favourite

This recipe is on constant repeat in my house. I first whipped it up on a night when I was this close to ordering takeout, but had chicken thighs and not much else. The air fryer did its thing, and the result was so crispy and juicy, even my picky eater asked for seconds.

Now it’s part of our regular rotation. I love how easy it is to switch up the seasonings, and it pairs well with whatever sides I have on hand—from leftover rice to a quick salad. Bonus: cleanup is a breeze.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Round out your meal with simple, tasty sides:

Roasted sweet potatoes or carrots
Steamed green beans or broccoli
A fresh garden or Caesar salad
Mashed potatoes or rice pilaf

Or go low-carb with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens for a lighter twist.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to bring back that crispy skin.

You can also freeze cooked thighs—wrap them tightly in foil or store in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I use boneless thighs?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly—start checking at 8–10 minutes per side.

Can I make this with chicken breasts?

You can, but thighs give better flavor and stay juicier in the air fryer.

Is this a healthy recipe?

Yes! It’s high in protein and low in added fat thanks to the air fryer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches. Crowding the basket can lead to soggy skin.

Dinner Just Got Easier (and Crispier)

These air fryer chicken thighs are proof that easy doesn’t mean boring. In just 30 minutes, you get that golden, crispy chicken skin and tender, flavorful dark meat that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or just need a quick protein for your meal prep, this dish delivers.

So next time you’re staring at those chicken thighs and wondering what to do, now you know. This one’s a keeper.

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