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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Garlic Herb Butter

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for juicy, crispy chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer and topped with a flavorful garlic herb butter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Set aside to let flavors meld while prepping chicken. (5 minutes)
  2. Season the chicken thighs: Pat the 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over them, then sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground pepper evenly on both sides. Rub the seasoning in gently with your hands. (5 minutes)
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it run empty for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Cook the chicken thighs: Place the thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. Then flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. (22-24 minutes total)
  5. Apply the garlic herb butter: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and immediately brush the garlic herb butter generously over the skin and sides while the chicken is hot. (2 minutes)
  6. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite sides. (5 minutes)

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Garlic herb butter can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic herb butter, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, juicy chicken, bone-in chicken thighs