1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply let it run at the cooking temperature for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the skin get crispy.
3. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken thighs all over with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides.
4. Air Fry the Chicken Thighs
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Make sure they are not overcrowded—if necessary, cook in batches. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
6. Garnish (Optional)
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Sauces: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, ranch, or a garlic aioli.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thighs:
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Skin Crispiness: For extra crispy skin, you can increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
- Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to settle and the skin to remain crispy.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy and juicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs! They’re a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal with minimal effort.