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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe with Garlic Butter Easy and Perfect

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This recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken thighs with a rich garlic butter sauce, ready in under 30 minutes. It’s an easy, flavorful dish ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat dry the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. (5 minutes)
  2. Place the thighs in a bowl or plate. Drizzle olive oil over them and rub evenly. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Massage the seasoning into all sides. (5 minutes)
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow air circulation.
  5. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes on the first side.
  6. Flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Stir in minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Remove from heat.
  8. Once cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and brush generously with the warm garlic butter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is essential for crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Add garlic butter after cooking to keep the flavor fresh and avoid burning the garlic. Let the chicken rest before serving for juicier meat. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives or olive oil.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-recipe-with-garlic-butter-easy-and-perfect/