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Crispy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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A quick and easy recipe for juicy, crispy chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer with a rich garlic butter coating. Perfect for weeknights and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste (preferably kosher salt)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat dry 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with paper towels to ensure dry skin for crispiness.
  2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon paprika, and optional 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Place chicken in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the thighs. Toss well with tongs or hands to coat evenly, making sure to get some butter under the skin if possible. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle 1 teaspoon lemon zest over the chicken.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes to start crisping the skin.
  7. Flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crisp.
  8. Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pat the chicken skin dry before coating to ensure crispiness. If possible, loosen the skin and spread some garlic butter underneath for deeper flavor and crisping. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy. For reheating, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic butter chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meal, juicy chicken, air fryer recipe

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