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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs - featured image

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Lemon Herb


  • Author: Eden
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Juicy, crispy boneless chicken thighs marinated in lemon, herbs, and Dijon mustard, cooked in an air fryer for a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme and parsley), chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
  3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Massage marinade into meat and let sit for at least 10 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.
  6. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 8 minutes).
  7. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and edges are golden brown.
  8. Remove from air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
  9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation. For extra crispiness, lightly spray chicken with cooking oil before cooking. Chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh per
  • Calories: 320
  • Sodium: 450
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 2
  • Protein: 28

Keywords: air fryer chicken, crispy chicken thighs, lemon herb chicken, healthy dinner, quick weeknight meals, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto-friendly