Easy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These crispy air fryer chicken thighs are an easy, reliable dinner that delivers great flavor with minimal effort. A simple herb-and-spice marinade gives the chicken plenty of seasoning, while the air fryer does the work of creating crisp skin and juicy meat without turning on the oven.
Looking for more delicious meal ideas? Try these lemongrass chicken thighs or sheet bbq chicken thighs next.
This is a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want something hands-off that still feels like a complete meal. Pair it with vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad and dinner is done.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Recipe Variations
Boneless Thighs – Reduce cooking time by about 5–7 minutes total.
Different Seasonings – Swap in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or lemon pepper.
Drumsticks – Use the same method, adjusting time based on size.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Step by Step
Here are quick visual instructions. Be sure to check out the full instructions with exact ingredients in the printable recipe card below.
Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, parsley, oregano, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Place chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour marinade over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 3: Shake off excess marinade and place chicken thighs in a single layer, skin side down in your air fryer. Cook in batches if needed
Step 4: Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes and then flip the chicken so the skin side is up. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crisp.
Step 5: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
Don’t overcrowd the basket — airflow is key for crispy skin.
Let the chicken rest briefly so juices redistribute.
If your air fryer runs hot, check doneness a few minutes early.
Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip marinating the chicken?
Yes. If you’re short on time, season the chicken well and cook immediately. Marinating just adds more depth of flavor.
Can I use boneless, skinless thighs?
Yes, but they will cook faster and won’t get crispy skin. Start checking for doneness around 12–14 minutes total.
Do I need to flip the chicken?
Yes. Flipping helps the skin crisp evenly and ensures the chicken cooks through.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just cook in batches so the chicken isn’t overcrowded.
I hope you love these air fryer chicken thighs. Please consider leaving a star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating in the recipe card below. Thank you so much!
More Dinner Ideas
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 1 pound bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, dried parsley, dried oregano, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to maximize flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, placing them skin side down. You may need to cook the chicken in multiple batches depending on the size of your appliance.
- Air fry the chicken thighs at 380°F (190°C) for 12 minutes.
- Using tongs, flip the chicken thighs over (now skin side up). Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully crispy and golden brown.
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer. Allow the thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy hot with your favorite side dishes.
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