Introduction
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe highlights the convenience of the air fryer, which cooks the chicken to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick Cooking Time: In just 35 minutes, including marinating, you can have a flavorful dinner ready, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of seasonings, along with the marinating process, ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
Crispy Skin: The air fryer’s hot air circulation creates a beautifully crispy skin that rivals traditional frying methods without the added oil.
Versatile Pairing: These chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, from vegetables to grains, allowing for endless meal combinations.
Ingredients
2 lbs. chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on, about 4 pieces)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 tablespoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large sealable Ziploc bag.
Add vegetable oil and all the seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar).
Seal the bag and shake well to combine.
Press the air out of the bag to ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Massage the seasoning around the chicken to coat evenly.
Marinate: Place in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Chicken Thighs
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up.
Cook for 25-28 minutes, or until the skin turns crispy and golden brown.
Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) as read on a meat thermometer.
Method of Storage
To ensure your Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs remain fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here’s how to store and reheat them effectively:
Storage Guidelines
Refrigeration
Storage: Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely before storing.
Container: Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
Storage: For longer storage, freeze the chicken thighs.
Container: Wrap each thigh individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
Duration: Frozen chicken thighs can last up to 2-3 months.
Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for about 5-10 minutes, checking to ensure they are heated through and the skin remains crispy.
Microwave: While convenient, this method may not maintain the crispiness. Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed.