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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Garlic Herb Butter Flavor

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer and finished with a rich garlic herb butter for a flavorful, quick, and easy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 60 g), softened
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Zest of half a lemon

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. (5 minutes)
  2. Season both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Rub gently to adhere. (2 minutes)
  3. Brush or drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over each thigh, coating the skin well. (2 minutes)
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. (3 minutes)
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes.
  6. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp. (20 minutes)
  7. While the chicken cooks, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest in a bowl. Mix until smooth. (5 minutes)
  8. When chicken is done, transfer to a plate and immediately brush the garlic herb butter generously over each thigh. (3 minutes)
  9. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices. (5 minutes)

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is essential for crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Add the garlic herb butter after cooking to preserve its fresh flavor and prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If skin isn’t crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes while watching closely.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic herb butter, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, bone-in chicken, skin-on chicken, healthy chicken recipe