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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Perfectly Crackling Skin

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This recipe delivers perfectly crackling skin and juicy meat using an air fryer, making it a quick, fuss-free, and addictive weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 teaspoons sea salt (coarse salt preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder (pure baking powder, not baking soda)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, removing all moisture from the skin and underside (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder (if using), and baking powder. Stir well to blend.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then toss them in the seasoning mix until evenly coated, especially on the skin side (3-4 minutes).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and run empty for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through cooking using tongs. The skin should be golden brown and crackling.
  7. Check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). If unavailable, pierce a thick part and ensure juices run clear.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes outside the air fryer to redistribute juices and keep the skin crisp.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Use pure baking powder to help crisp the skin. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep skin crisp and meat juicy. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery skin.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://grubella.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-perfectly-crackling-skin/