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Quick Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Easy Smoky Paprika Recipe

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This recipe delivers quick, crispy air fryer chicken thighs with a smoky paprika seasoning that locks in juicy tenderness and a satisfying crunch. Perfect for fast, comforting weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons smoky paprika (Spanish smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Optional: lemon zest from half a lemon
  • Optional: pinch of dried thyme or oregano

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin (about 3 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine smoky paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper or lemon zest if using.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs, then sprinkle the spice mix evenly. Rub the seasoning all over each piece, including under the skin if possible (about 5 minutes).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and run it empty for 3-5 minutes for best crisping.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes until the skin begins to crisp and you smell the smoky paprika aroma.
  7. Flip the thighs skin-side up using tongs and cook for another 8-10 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep juices locked in.
  9. If the skin isn’t crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Notes

Drying the chicken skin thoroughly is essential for crispiness. Seasoning the chicken ahead of time (15-30 minutes or up to 24 hours refrigerated) enhances flavor. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Rest the chicken before slicing to keep it juicy. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crisp skin; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, smoky paprika chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://cookluma.com/quick-crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-smoky-paprika-recipe/