High Protein Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Delightfully crispy and packed with protein, these High Protein Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a quick and flavorful option for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep enthusiasts. Featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with a zesty blend of garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and a splash of fresh lemon juice, this recipe creates irresistibly juicy chicken with perfectly crisp skin—all in just 25 minutes of cooking time. The air fryer locks in moisture while delivering restaurant-quality results without excess oil, making this a healthier choice that doesn’t skimp on taste. With minimal prep and effortless clean-up, these chicken thighs are perfect for anyone seeking a high-protein, low-maintenance meal. Serve them fresh out of the air fryer, garnished with parsley, and pair with your favorite sides for a satisfying, wholesome dish!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure they become crispy in the air fryer.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them well, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
Arrange the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up, and ensure they are not overlapping.
Cook the chicken thighs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They are done when the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1650 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 131.6 g | 169% | |
| Saturated Fat | 33.8 g | 169% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 486 mg | 162% | |
| Sodium | 1678 mg | 73% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.7 g | 2% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.6 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.7 g | ||
| Protein | 109.1 g | 218% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 88 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 6.8 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 1456 mg | 31% | |
*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.
