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Crispy Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic butter air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy 5-ingredient recipe for perfectly crispy, juicy chicken thighs coated in savory garlic butter, cooked in the air fryer for a delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds or 700 grams)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Let it sit for 5 minutes to infuse the butter.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika.
  3. Coat with Garlic Butter: Place the seasoned chicken in a mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter over the thighs and toss gently to coat every piece well.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange Chicken in Basket: Place the thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.
  6. Cook for 10 Minutes: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes until the skin starts to brown and crisp.
  7. Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the chicken so the skin side is up and cook for another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the thighs and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin. Preheat air fryer for even cooking. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for uniform crispiness. Watch garlic butter timing to avoid burning; optionally brush garlic butter halfway through cooking. Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving to keep juicy. For dairy-free, use butter alternatives like coconut or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, garlic butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, 5-ingredient recipe