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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Best Garlic Herb Butter Recipe

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy, crispy air fryer chicken thighs finished with a rich garlic herb butter sauce. A quick, weeknight-friendly meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the need for a grill.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, rubbing the seasoning in.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes to render fat and start crisping the skin.
  6. While chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in minced garlic and dried herbs. Bubble gently for 1 minute to infuse flavors.
  7. Open the air fryer, flip the chicken thighs, and spoon half of the garlic herb butter over the chicken.
  8. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the basket and spoon the remaining garlic herb butter over the hot chicken.
  10. Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes to absorb the sauce and redistribute juices.
  11. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

Ensure chicken is completely dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. If using bone-in thighs, increase cooking time by 5-7 minutes. For dairy-free options, substitute butter with ghee or plant-based oil.

Nutrition

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