Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

These air fryer chicken thighs pair crackly, well-seasoned skin with tender, juicy meat. A quick dry brine and a light coating of baking powder encourage deep browning without added breading. They make an easy weeknight dinner and cook in about 25 minutes. • Dry skin is essential for crisping, so blot the chicken thoroughly before adding oil and seasoning. • Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if the thighs cannot sit in one layer with space between them. • Chicken thighs are safe at 165°F, but cooking them to 175–185°F makes their connective tissue more tender while the dark meat stays juicy. • Air fryers vary in power, so begin checking the internal temperature after 20 minutes. • Use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika for a milder flavor. • Replace avocado oil with olive oil or another neutral high-heat cooking oil. • Substitute dried oregano or Italian seasoning for the dried thyme. • For boneless, skin-on thighs, begin checking for doneness after 15 minutes and cook to at least 165°F. Refrigerate cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen thighs overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat skin-side up in a preheated air fryer at 375°F for 5 to 8 minutes, until crisp and heated to 165°F.