Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (with Bone in Thighs)

This recipe for air fryer chicken thighs with bone-in thighs is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy crispy and juicy chicken. The thighs are seasoned with a combination of spices, including onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and Cajun seasoning for a delicious kick. The chicken is marinated for extra flavor, then air fried to perfection. With a total cook time of just 27 minutes, these chicken thighs make a satisfying meal in no time. Serve them alongside your favorite sides for a complete and hassle-free dinner option.

What are the Ingredients

To create the delectable air fryer chicken thighs with bone-in, we'll need a few key ingredients. First, gather four big chicken thighs with the bone still intact and the skin on. These components contribute to the succulent and flavorful outcome of the dish. Next, we'll season the chicken with a blend of spices. The medley includes salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, dry thyme, paprika, "Slap ya mama" Cajun seasoning by Walker and Sons, and a crushed Maggi or a teaspoon of Knorr seasoning for that extra depth of flavor. These harmonious spices will awaken your taste buds.

Additionally, we'll drizzle the thighs with a tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO), ensuring a crispy and golden finish. Lastly, to add a burst of freshness, a juiced lemon will be used to wash and cleanse the chicken. The combination of these carefully selected ingredients will elevate your air fryer chicken thighs to new heights, creating a memorable dining experience for all to savor.

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (with Bone in Thighs)

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it's time to embark on a culinary adventure and create your delicious air fryer chicken thighs with bone-in. Begin by giving the chicken thighs a thorough wash, using the juice of half a lemon to ensure cleanliness. Pat them dry with paper towels, removing any excess moisture, as this will help achieve that perfect crispy texture. 

Now, it's time to infuse the chicken with flavor. Combine the salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, dry thyme, paprika, "Slap ya mama" Cajun seasoning, and crushed Maggi or Knorr seasoning in a bowl. This aromatic blend will take your taste buds on a journey. Slip on a pair of gloves and generously rub the dry rub mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. 

To allow the flavors to marry, cover the thighs and let them marinate for a couple of hours. However, if time is of the essence, you can cook them immediately. 

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it's nice and hot before we begin the cooking process. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, and let them cook for 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip or turn them to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes. 

Next, reduce the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue cooking the chicken thighs for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. In total, the cooking time should be around 27 minutes, but please note that it may vary depending on the size of your chicken thighs and the type of air fryer you're using. For the best results, it's always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

As the tantalizing aroma fills your kitchen, your taste buds will be eagerly awaiting the moment of indulgence. Once the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate, and get ready to enjoy a feast. 

Remember, cooking is an art, and personal taste preferences may vary. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your liking and health needs. And most importantly, savor every bite of your homemade air fryer chicken thighs, as they embody the flavors of your culinary journey.

Recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (with Bone in Thighs)

Delight in crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken thighs with bone-in, seasoned with a tantalizing blend of spices and cooked to perfection in just 27 minutes.

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Cook Time: 27 minutes

Total Time: 34 minutes 

Yield: 4 Servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 Big chicken thighs (bone in and skin on)
• ¼ teaspoon salt or less
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onions powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dry thyme
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• ½ – 1 teaspoon “Slap ya mama” Cajun Seasoning by Walker and sons
• 1 Maggi; crushed (or 1 teaspoon Knorr seasoning)
• 1 tablespoon EVOO (Extra virgin olive oil)
• 1 lemon

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Wash the chicken thighs very well using ½ of one lemon (juiced). Pat dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
2. Add seasonings and olive oil to the thighs, wear gloves, and rub the dry rub on every part of the chicken thigh using your hands. Cover and allow the thighs to marinate for 2 hours or cook immediately if in a hurry.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400, place chicken skin up, flip/turn after 10 minutes, and cook for another 5 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 350, and cook for another 10 – 15 minutes. I cooked these big thighs for a total of 27 minutes. 
4. Please note that cooking time can vary due to the chicken size of your chicken thigh or the type of air fryer. I have big chicken thighs, and they cooked at a good time. Equally, I have the Instant Pot Air Fryer, which works very well! Your best bet for cooking meat in the Air Fryer is to use a meat thermometer.

NOTES:

1. Cooking time can vary due to the chicken size of your chicken thigh or the type of air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked!
2. Do not overcrowd your Air Fryer; if you have a smaller quart, cook in batch. My air fryer is 6 quarts.
3. Add salt according to your taste or health need. Some seasonings already have sodium, be sure to read the labels.
4. Do not place foil or parchment paper in your Air Fryer before placing the chicken.

This recipe for air fryer chicken thighs with bone-in offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a crispy exterior. With the perfect balance of seasonings and the quick cooking time provided by the air fryer, you can indulge in a flavorful and satisfying meal in no time.