Chicken thighs are a juicy and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is using an air fryer, which allows you to achieve a crispy and delicious result without the need for deep frying in oil. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe on how to cook chicken thighs in an air fryer.
Gather Your Ingredients and Prep the Chicken Thighs
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
Once you have your ingredients ready, begin by prepping the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispy skin.
Season the Chicken Thighs
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix them well to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure to cover every inch of the chicken.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The preheating process may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheating is essential as it helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.
Cook the Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the chicken thighs! Follow these steps for optimal results:
Step 1: Arrange the Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer Basket
Carefully place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side facing down. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket to ensure proper airflow and even cooking. If necessary, cook the chicken thighs in batches or use a larger air fryer.
Step 2: Set the Cooking Time and Temperature
Set the cooking time to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the thighs, so it’s worth checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Flip the Chicken Thighs
After 10 minutes of cooking, carefully flip the chicken thighs using tongs or a spatula. This step will ensure even browning and a crispy skin on both sides.
Step 4: Monitor the Cooking Process
Keep an eye on the chicken thighs as they cook. The air fryer’s hot circulating air will help cook them evenly, but it’s always a good idea to check their progress. If you notice any uneven browning, you can rotate the chicken thighs or adjust the position in the air fryer basket.
Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature
Once the cooking time is up, check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs using a meat thermometer. Make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. If the temperature hasn’t reached the desired level, you can continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Serve and Enjoy!
When the chicken thighs are perfectly cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
You can serve the chicken thighs as they are or pair them with your favorite sides. They go well with a variety of options like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The crispy skin and juicy meat of the chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer are sure to be a hit at any meal.
In conclusion, cooking chicken thighs in an air fryer provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. By following this easy recipe, you can achieve crispy and juicy chicken thighs with minimal effort. So, grab your air fryer and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!