1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Season Chicken Thighs: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Coat Chicken Thighs: Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. Coat each thigh evenly with the marinade mixture, ensuring it covers all sides.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Air Fry Chicken Thighs: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece for air circulation.
- Cook First Side: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs and air fry for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Prepare Potato Wedges: In a bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
- Air Fry Potatoes: Place the seasoned potato wedges in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The potatoes should be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside when done.
5. Serve:
- Plate and Garnish: Arrange the crispy chicken thighs and potato wedges on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Thighs: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy meat and crispy skin in the air fryer.
- Even Cooking: Arrange the chicken and potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can add more spices or herbs for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Chicken Breast: Substitute chicken thighs with bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts if preferred.
- Spicy Option: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chicken and potatoes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and prepare the potatoes with additional vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes is a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The air fryer ensures crispy chicken skin and perfectly cooked potatoes with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Enjoy the savory flavors and crispy textures of this dish, and customize it with your favorite seasonings and sides for a delicious dining experience.