Crispy, juicy, and packed with bold flavor, these Dairy-Free Air Fried Chicken Thighs are a game-changer for quick and healthy weeknight dinners. Using a delicious blend of pantry spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, along with a zesty splash of fresh lemon juice, this recipe delivers restaurant-worthy results without any dairy. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly golden, crispy exterior while locking in moisture, all in under 30 minutes of cook time. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of flavor! Serve alongside roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a satisfying, well-balanced meal. Ideal for busy families or health-conscious eaters looking for a hassle-free yet flavorful dish!
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to form a thick paste.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the spice paste.
Pour the lemon juice over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece gets a splash. This will provide a bright flavor to the chicken.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece for proper air circulation.
Air fry the chicken thighs for 12 minutes, then flip over to the other side and cook for an additional 10-13 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
Serve the air-fried chicken thighs hot with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Calories |
1546 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 94.7 g | 121% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.7 g | 118% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 564 mg | 188% | |
| Sodium | 1679 mg | 73% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.2 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.2 g | ||
| Protein | 157.5 g | 315% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 105 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 7.0 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1611 mg | 34% | |
*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.