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Crispy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic butter air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers irresistibly crispy, juicy chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer with a rich garlic butter coating. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (1.5–2 lbs / 680–900 g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (added after cooking)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and trim any excess fat if needed. (5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until combined. (3 minutes)
  3. Using a brush, coat each chicken thigh generously with the garlic butter mixture on both sides. Reserve a little for basting later. (5 minutes)
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place the thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between pieces for air circulation. Cook for 12 minutes.
  6. Flip the thighs skin-side up carefully using tongs. Brush with more garlic butter. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden and crispy.
  7. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly to ensure crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Flip and baste halfway through cooking to build flavor and crispiness. If air fryer smokes due to butter, add a small piece of bread or a few drops of water to the bottom tray. Let chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices. Lemon juice added after cooking brightens the flavor and cuts richness.

Nutrition

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

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