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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe with Easy Caramelized Garlic

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs cooked in an air fryer, paired with sweet, mellow caramelized garlic for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 8–10 whole garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
  • Splash of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the thighs.
  3. Season with 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  6. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip to skin side up and cook another 10-12 minutes until skin is golden brown and crackly.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook 2-3 minutes more.
  8. While chicken cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.
  9. Add peeled garlic cloves and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden and soft, about 15 minutes.
  10. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
  11. Spoon caramelized garlic over chicken thighs, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle fresh thyme if available.
  12. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for best crispiness. Cook garlic low and slow to avoid burning and bitterness. Rest chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. If no air fryer, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes on a wire rack, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, caramelized garlic, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly

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