The BEST CRISPY Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on; about 1.5 lbs total)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (extra virgin preferred)
• 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard Seed (adds subtle heat)
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (provides smoky flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt (kosher or sea salt)
• 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

Instructions

1. Dry the Chicken Skin

   Pat each chicken thigh skin completely dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to crispiness.

   Time: PT2M

2. Prepare the Spice Rub

   In a large mixing bowl combine olive oil, ground mustard seed, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until a uniform paste forms.

   Time: PT3M

3. Coat the Chicken

   Add the dried chicken thighs to the bowl and toss, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the spice mixture.

   Time: PT2M

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

   Set the air fryer to 380°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 380°F

5. First Side Cooking

   Place the chicken thighs skin‑side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12 minutes.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 380°F

6. Flip and Finish Cooking

   Open the fryer, flip each thigh using tongs, and cook for another 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 380°F

7. Rest the Chicken

   Remove the thighs from the air fryer and let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes before serving.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

250

Protein

20g

Carbohydrates

2g

Fat

18g

Fiber

0g