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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe Perfect for Easy Herb-Infused Meals

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken thighs infused with fresh herbs, cooked quickly and easily in an air fryer for a flavorful and fuss-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • A small handful fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, chopped parsley, rosemary leaves, thyme leaves, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir well.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, ideally 1 hour.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces for air circulation.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs.
  6. Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and crispy.
  7. Remove chicken from air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes covered loosely with foil before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crisp skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. If using frozen herbs, reduce quantity. For reheating, use air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, air fryer chicken, herb chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken, dairy-free chicken