Indulge in the ultimate combination of flavor, nutrition, and convenience with these High Protein Crispy Air Fried Chicken Thighs! Perfectly seasoned with a savory blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme, these bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are air fried to golden perfection, resulting in irresistibly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. This recipe is a healthier twist on classic fried chicken, offering high protein content and minimal oil usage thanks to the magic of the air fryer. Ready in just 35 minutes from prep to plate, these chicken thighs are ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, delivering mouthwatering results that donβt compromise on taste or texture. Serve them hot for a protein-packed dinner thatβs quick, easy, and bursting with bold flavors!
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this will help them get crispy.
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
Rub the spice paste evenly over the entire surface of the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for 5-10 minutes while you prepare the air fryer.
Preheat the air fryer to 400Β°F (200Β°C) for about 3 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the basket in a single layer, skin side down, ensuring they do not overlap.
Air fry the chicken for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece over, and continue cooking for another 10-13 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (74Β°C).
Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve hot and enjoy your high-protein crispy air-fried chicken thighs!
Calories |
1664 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.0 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.3 g | 152% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 564 mg | 188% | |
| Sodium | 2860 mg | 124% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.0 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.6 g | ||
| Protein | 134.8 g | 270% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 103 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 7.4 mg | 41% | |
| 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.