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Crispy Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Thighs Recipe High Protein and Easy

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This recipe delivers crispy skin and juicy, tender bone-in chicken thighs cooked quickly in an air fryer. It’s high in protein, simple to prepare, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams) with skin on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken and toss gently with tongs to coat evenly (2 minutes).
  3. Combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using in a small bowl. Sprinkle this spice mix evenly over the chicken, rubbing lightly to adhere (3 minutes).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Cook for 12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then carefully flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs.
  7. Continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Total cook time is 22-24 minutes.
  8. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is critical for crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy. For extra crispiness, spray a light mist of cooking oil halfway through cooking. If you don’t have an air fryer, a convection oven at 400°F (200°C) with a wire rack can be used but cooking times may vary.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, high protein chicken, easy chicken recipe, bone-in chicken, healthy chicken, quick dinner

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/crispy-air-fryer-bone-in-chicken-thighs-recipe-high-protein-and-easy/