Discover the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity with these Air Fried Lean Chicken Thighs—your new go-to healthy dinner choice! Made with bone-in, skinless chicken thighs and a vibrant blend of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and a touch of lemon, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a crisp, golden-brown exterior. Ready in under 30 minutes, these thighs are effortlessly cooked in the air fryer, ensuring even cooking and less oil for a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for weeknight meals or meal prep, this protein-packed dish pairs beautifully with your favorite sides, from roasted veggies to a fresh green salad. Whether you're seeking a quick family dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, these air-fried chicken thighs promise bold flavor with minimal effort.
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
Rub the marinade evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated on all sides.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
While the air fryer is preheating, let the seasoned chicken thighs marinate at room temperature.
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the chicken thighs in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
Air fry the chicken thighs at 380°F (193°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are crispy and cooked through.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached at least 165°F (74°C).
When done, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
Serve the air-fried chicken thighs with wedges of lemon for squeezing over as desired.
Calories |
262 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 16.9 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g | 19% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 98 mg | 33% | |
| Sodium | 560 mg | 24% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 4.0 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| Protein | 24.0 g | 48% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 27 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.3 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 283 mg | 6% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.