Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin become extra crispy.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl.
Step 2: Season
- Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using).
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken and rub it evenly over all sides, including under the skin if possible.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Leave a little space between each piece for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 12 minutes.
Step 5: Flip
- Turn the chicken over so the skin is facing up.
- Cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Step 6: Check the Temperature
- The chicken is fully cooked when the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy chicken thighs with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Corn on the cob
- Rice or garlic butter rice
- Garden salad
- Air fryer potato wedges
Tips
- Drying the chicken thoroughly is the key to achieving crispy skin.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.
- For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C)for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Enjoy these crispy, juicy Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Thighs with your favorite side dishes for an easy, flavorful meal the whole family will love! 🍗✨