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Crispy Air Fryer bone-in chicken thighs served on a white plate with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, and a side of dipping sauce.
Tarek Rakhiess

Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Thighs Recipe: Crispy Skin

Make perfectly crispy air fryer bone-in chicken thighs with juicy meat and golden skin using this easy method with exact time and temperature.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone‑in skin‑on chicken thighs
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Cooking spray for the air fryer basket

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Trim excess skin — Trim any extra skin hanging from the sides of the thighs. This helps the skin crisp up evenly and prevents soggy spots.
  2. Season the chicken — Place the chicken thighs into a Zip‑top bag or sealed container. Add:
  3. Salt
  4. Smoked paprika
  5. Garlic powder
  6. Onion powder
  7. Oregano
  8. Seal the bag and shake well until every piece is fully coated.
  9. Preheat the air fryer — Heat your air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
  10. Prepare the basket — Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  11. First cook skin‑side down — Place the chicken thighs skin‑side down in the basket. Cook for 12 minutes at 380°F (193°C).
  12. Flip and continue cooking — Flip the thighs so the skin faces up. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the skin is crispy to your liking.
  13. Check internal temperature — Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
  14. Serve — Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes, then enjoy the crispy skin and juicy meat.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
  • You can add chili powder or cayenne for a spicy version.
  • Works best with bone‑in, skin‑on thighs due to fat rendering.
  • Avoid overcrowding the basket for maximum airflow.