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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Lemon – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

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These crispy air fryer chicken thighs with lemon are a quick and easy weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes. The air fryer creates shatteringly crisp skin while the lemon and garlic infuse the meat with bright, savory flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 1 large fresh lemon
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried oregano (if using). Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Zest the lemon directly over the bowl of chicken and toss again. Cut the lemon in half and set aside.
  5. Smash the garlic cloves with the flat side of a chef’s knife.
  6. Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Tuck the smashed garlic cloves in between the thighs. Do not overcrowd.
  7. Cook for 12 minutes.
  8. Flip the chicken using tongs so the skin side is facing up.
  9. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  10. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over the hot chicken. Let rest in the basket for 2-3 minutes.
  11. Transfer to a serving platter, scatter the roasted garlic cloves, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For maximum crispiness, dry the chicken skin thoroughly and do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Add lemon juice at the end to preserve texture. If using boneless thighs, reduce cooking time to 15-18 minutes. For a honey lemon glaze, mix 1 tablespoon honey with the lemon juice before drizzling.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken thighs, lemon chicken, easy chicken dinner, 30-minute meal, air fryer recipe

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-with-lemon-easy-30-minute-dinner/