I have made these air fryer chicken thighs at least once a week for the past two years. Not an exaggeration. They are that good, and once you taste crispy skin this perfect, oven-baked chicken simply does not hit the same.
The magic of the air fryer is the 360° circulating heat that crisps every surface simultaneously. You genuinely don't need to add oil — the natural chicken fat renders out beautifully.
This recipe works with bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor. The spice blend is my go-to, but feel free to swap it for your favorite seasoning mix.
Ultra-Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
The crispiest chicken skin you've ever made at home — without a drop of oil. These air fryer chicken thighs are golden, juicy inside, and impossibly easy.
Ingredients
✓ Tap each ingredient to check it off as you go!
Instructions
- 1
Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels — this is the #1 secret to crispy skin.
- 2
Mix all spices together in a small bowl. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
- 3
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- 4
Place chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket, without crowding. Cook in batches if needed.
- 5
Air fry at 400°F for 22–25 minutes, until the skin is deep golden and crispy, and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- 6
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. The skin will crisp up even more as it rests.
- 7
Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Nutrition per serving
* Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
