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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Easy 20-Minute Dinner

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Juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs with shatteringly crisp skin, made in the air fryer in about 20 minutes. No flour or breadcrumbs needed—just simple ingredients and a clever technique for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon fine table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional but recommended)
  • Optional seasonings: smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Remove as much moisture as possible from all surfaces.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
  4. Place the dried chicken thighs in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them and toss with your hands until each thigh is evenly coated, including under any loose skin.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each for air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes. Do not open the air fryer during this time.
  7. Carefully flip the chicken thighs using tongs so the skin side is facing up.
  8. Cook for another 8 to 12 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches at least 175°F (80°C) in the thickest part away from the bone.
  9. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  10. Serve immediately. The skin stays crispy for about 15-20 minutes.

Notes

Pat the chicken completely dry for maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. For best results, let seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, weeknight dinner, gluten-free chicken, keto chicken, low-carb chicken

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-20-minute-dinner/