This ultra crispy air fryer chicken thighs recipe is quick and simple to prepare, perfectly seasoned, and makes the juiciest, most flavorful chicken! The crispy skin is just the best.
4largebone-in skin-on chicken thighsabout 1.5-2 lbs. total
1tablespoonolive oil
Salt & pepperto taste
1teaspoonItalian seasoning
1teaspoononion powder
1teaspoongarlic powder
Instructions
Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray and preheat your air fryer to 400F.
Dry the chicken thighs with paper towels and add them to a fairly large prep bowl. Toss/rub them with the olive oil, salt & pepper (I'm generous with both), Italian seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Add the chicken thighs (skin side down) to your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12 minutes then flip (use tongs to make it easy) and cook for another 10 minutes or until crispy and cooked through. If your chicken thighs are particularly small or large, you may need to adjust cooking time, and keep in mind air fryers can vary in their wattage.
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Air fryers can vary a lot, so if you know yours runs hot, for example, check on the chicken a couple of minutes prior to the cooking time elapsing to see if it's done. If your air fryer isn't as powerful, simply add on some extra time if it's not cooked yet.
Chicken is cooked at 165F internal temp, but I prefer chicken thighs to be at least 175F to be tender, and I like to give the skin time to crisp up. They don't dry out the same way as chicken breasts do so don't worry if yours go over.
If you're doubling or tripling the recipe, you will need to cook the chicken in batches. Don't crowd the air fryer basket or the skin won't be nice and crispy.