Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Thighs with Seasoning Recipe
Introduction
Air-fried chicken thighs are a simple and delicious way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken without the need for deep frying. Using an air fryer, you get tender meat with perfectly crisped skin in less time and with less oil.
Ingredients
- 4 large or 8 small chicken thighs, skin on
- 1 tbsp sunflower or olive oil
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- Seasoning of choice: salt and pepper, or ½–1 tsp of smoky BBQ, ras-el-hanout, garlic granules, celery salt, or garam masala
Instructions
- Step 1: Toss the chicken thighs in the oil, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Step 2: Mix the plain flour with your chosen seasoning, then toss the chicken thighs in the mixture to lightly coat them. For a thicker coating, you can double the amount of flour and seasoning.
- Step 3: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on the tray of an air fryer that does not have a paddle.
- Step 4: Cook the chicken for 35 minutes. Check doneness by pulling the flesh on the underside of one thigh away from the bone—it should come off easily and show no pink.
- Step 5: If needed, cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until fully cooked and the skin is bubbly and crisp.
- Step 6: Remove the chicken immediately from the air fryer to avoid the skin softening from steam. Discard any excess fat collected in the base of the fryer.
Tips & Variations
- Try different seasonings like smoked paprika or curry powder to change the flavor profile.
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before tossing in oil.
- If your air fryer has a paddle, use a tray or basket without stirring to keep the coating intact.
- Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover air-fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can soften the skin.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as breasts are leaner and cook faster. Check doneness carefully to avoid drying out the meat.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is optional but can help achieve crispier skin by starting the cooking at a higher initial temperature.
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Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Thighs with Seasoning Recipe
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for crispy air-fried chicken thighs with a perfectly seasoned, light flour coating. This method uses an air fryer to achieve golden, bubbly skin and tender, juicy meat without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier alternative that still delivers on flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 large or 8 small chicken thighs, skin on
Coating
- 1 tbsp sunflower or olive oil
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- Seasoning of choice: salt and pepper, or ½-1 tsp of smoky BBQ, ras-el-hanout, garlic granules, celery salt, or garam masala
Instructions
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken thighs in the oil, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides to help the flour and seasonings adhere better and promote crisping.
- Prepare the Seasoned Flour: Mix the plain flour with your chosen seasoning. Toss the oiled chicken thighs in this mixture to form a very light coating. If desired, double the amount of flour and seasoning for a thicker crust.
- Arrange and Cook: Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer on the tray of an air fryer without a paddle to ensure even cooking and crispness.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Set the air fryer to cook the thighs for 35 minutes. After this time, check doneness by pulling the flesh from the underside of one thigh; the meat should come away easily and show no pink. If needed, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: The chicken skin should be bubbly and crisp, with excess fat drained and discarded from the air fryer base. Serve immediately to prevent the skin from softening due to steam.
Notes
- Use skin-on chicken thighs for the best crispy texture.
- You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer tray to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the crispy skin at its best.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: air fried chicken, crispy chicken thighs, healthy fried chicken, chicken recipe, air fryer recipe
