Print

Crispy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic butter air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

This recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken thighs with rich garlic butter flavor, cooked quickly and easily in an air fryer for a perfect dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (sea salt preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray for air fryer basket

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the garlic butter mixture, trying to get some under the skin.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes until skin starts to turn golden and crisp.
  7. Flip chicken thighs skin-side up using tongs and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until skin is deeply crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness. Preheat the air fryer to help skin crisp faster. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even crisping. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra glossy finish, brush reserved melted butter on chicken after cooking. If skin isn’t crispy enough, air fry for a couple more minutes watching closely to avoid burning. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Oven baking alternative: bake at 425°F on wire rack for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic butter chicken, easy dinner, quick chicken recipe, family meal, keto chicken, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/crispy-garlic-butter-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner/