Description
These juicy air fryer chicken thighs are ready in under 20 minutes with just a few pantry staples. They feature a crispy, mahogany-colored crust and a tender, flavorful center—perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (approx. 4–6 thighs, trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Dry Chicken Rub
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 2 tablespoons Roasted Garlic and Peppers Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- 2 teaspoons Onion Powder
- 2 teaspoons Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Seasoning Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat: Set your air fryer to 380°F.
- Prep the Rub: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, garlic powder, roasted garlic seasoning, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, seasoning salt, and pepper.
- Dry and Oil: Use a paper towel to pat the chicken thighs dry on both sides. Brush each thigh lightly with olive oil.
- Season: Generously coat the chicken on all sides with 1 tablespoon of the dry rub.
- Air Fry: Place the thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes. Flip the thighs over and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes.
- Check Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches at least 165°F (175°F recommended for best texture).
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the basket and let it rest for 2-5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 380°F for 2-3 minutes. For a keto-friendly version, swap the brown sugar for a monk fruit or erythritol brown sugar substitute.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 214 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 9.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 29.4 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg