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Close-up of crispy, richly seasoned Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Simple Marinade on a white plate.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Simple Marinade

Make simple, flavorful chicken thighs in the air fryer. This recipe uses a basic spice blend for quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 389

Ingredients
  

Spice Mixture
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Chicken
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds) Use boneless thighs for variation.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For Serving
  • As needed Lemon wedges For squeezing over the top.
  • As needed Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro For sprinkling.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Air fryer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the paprika, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs very dry on both sides, then add them to the bowl. Drizzle with the oil, then toss to coat them in the spice mixture.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side down. Do not let them touch; cook in batches if necessary.
  4. Air fry the chicken thighs for 16 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check the thickest part of a thigh with a thermometer; it should read 155°F (it will reach 165°F while resting).
  5. Set the chicken aside, cover it, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges squeezed over the top and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Calories: 389kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 24gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 142mgPotassium: 369mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 1407IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

If you use boneless thighs, preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Cook them smooth-side down for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach 155°F internally. Let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes before eating.
You can store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave. Freeze thighs for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container; thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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