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These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs offer a crispy, flavorful dinner option without the heaviness of deep frying. They are moist on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside thanks to the magic of air frying, making them a fast and satisfying weeknight meal that the whole family loves.
I first made these during a busy week when I needed a quick dinner that still felt special. Now they are on rotation every couple of weeks because everyone asks for them.
Ingredients
- Buttermilk: gives the chicken moisture and tenderizes the meat for juicy thighs
- Large egg: helps the coating adhere to the chicken
- Allpurpose flour: forms the crunchy crust
- Cornstarch: adds extra crispiness to the coating
- Garlic powder: infuses savory depth to the breading
- Onion powder: complements the garlic and enhances flavor
- Kosher salt: balances seasoning and helps the crust develop
- Black pepper: adds subtle heat and complexity
- Bonein chicken thighs: they stay juicy and have great flavor
- Olive oil cooking spray: ensures a golden crust without excess oil opt for good quality spray to avoid sticky residue
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat. This is important to start with a hot environment for crispy skin.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a mediumsized bowl whisk together the buttermilk and egg until fully combined. This mixture will soak your chicken and keep it moist.
- Prepare the Dry Coating:
- In another bowl combine the allpurpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly. This seasoned flour blend forms your delicious crispy crust.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk mixture, making sure it is fully coated then let the excess drip off. Transfer the thigh to the flour mixture and press the coating onto the surface so it sticks well.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket:
- Spray the air fryer basket generously with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and help the coating crisp up nicely.
- Arrange and Spray Chicken:
- Place the coated chicken thighs in the basket without overlapping so air can circulate freely. Spray the tops of the chicken liberally with olive oil spray for that golden finish.
- Cook and Flip:
- Cook the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes total. Flip each thigh halfway through cooking and spray again with olive oil spray. This ensures even browning. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and an instantread thermometer reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
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My favorite ingredient here has to be the buttermilk. It’s the secret weapon that keeps the chicken warmly tender even after air frying. I remember the first time I made this recipe everyone was shocked that these thighs were so crispy without a drop of deep-frying oil. It made a busy school night feel special and fun.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 minutes to revive the crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap bonein chicken thighs for boneless if you prefer but adjust cooking time accordingly. Regular milk plus a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice can substitute buttermilk in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal. A crisp green salad would add a fresh contrast.
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These air fryer chicken thighs are quick to make and deliver crispy, juicy results the whole family will love. Use an instantread thermometer to ensure doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating to 375°F helps create an evenly crispy exterior and cooks the chicken thoroughly.
- → Why spray the chicken before air frying?
Spraying with olive oil promotes a crunchy, browned crust similar to traditional frying without excess oil.
- → Is spraying the air fryer basket necessary?
Yes, spraying prevents the coating from sticking and helps with easy removal and cleanup.
- → How can I tell when the chicken is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- → Can I cook multiple batches at once?
It's best to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring proper air circulation and crispiness.
- → What role does buttermilk play in this dish?
Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds moisture, keeping it juicy during air frying.