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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe With Savory Herb Butter Easy and Perfect

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy air fryer chicken thighs with a savory herb butter glaze that delivers juicy, flavorful, and comfort food perfection with minimal fuss and mess.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder, a sprinkle
  • Smoked paprika, optional but recommended
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 55g), softened
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest of half a lemon

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Let the chicken sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to sink in.
  4. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
  5. Stir in minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest into the melted butter. Keep warm but do not boil.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  7. Place the chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket without crowding; cook for 10 minutes.
  8. Flip the chicken thighs skin side up using tongs and brush with half of the herb butter mixture.
  9. Continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove chicken from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  11. Brush the chicken with the remaining herb butter before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Melt butter gently to avoid burning garlic. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Let chicken rest after cooking for juicy meat. Reheat in air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness. Herb butter can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, herb butter chicken, easy chicken recipe, savory chicken, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken