Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Thighs

👉Ingredients:

↪️4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

↪️Juice of ½ lemon (for cleaning)

↪️¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

↪️¼ tsp black pepper

↪️1 tsp onion powder

↪️¼ tsp garlic powder

↪️½ tsp dried thyme

↪️2 tsp paprika

↪️½ – 1 tsp "Slap Ya Mama" Cajun seasoning

↪️1 crushed Maggi cube (or 1 tsp Knorr seasoning)

↪️1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

↪️Remaining half lemon (optional, for garnish or extra flavor)

👉Instructions:

✅️1. Clean and prep: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken to clean it. Rinse lightly if desired, then pat dry thoroughly using paper towels.

✅️2. Season: In a bowl, mix the dry spices with the olive oil. Put on gloves and rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well coated. Let them marinate for 2 hours, or cook immediately if short on time.

✅️3. Air fry:

◾️Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

◾️Place the chicken thighs skin side up in the basket without overlapping.

◾️Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook another 5 minutes.

◾️Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Total cook time: ~27 minutes.

👉Tips for Success:

↪️1. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked—especially if your thighs are large or your air fryer model varies.

↪️2. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if your air fryer is under 6 quarts.

↪️3. Skip foil or parchment paper—air circulation is key for crispy skin in the air fryer.