Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

Introduction: Welcome to a culinary adventure where the delightful aroma of lemon pepper seasoning meets the crispy perfection of air-fried chicken thighs. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating tender, juicy chicken thighs with a golden-brown, crispy skin that will have your taste buds singing with delight. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken thighs cook evenly and achieve that irresistible crispy texture.

2. Preparing the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for ensuring that the seasoning adheres properly and the skin becomes crispy during cooking.

3. Creating the Seasoning Paste: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until you have a smooth, flavorful paste that will coat the chicken thighs evenly.

4. Coating the Chicken: Rub the seasoning paste generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated on all sides. This step is where the magic happens, as the combination of zesty lemon pepper and aromatic spices infuses the chicken with flavor.

5. Air Frying the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer and not touching each other. This allows for optimal air circulation, resulting in evenly cooked and crispy chicken.

6. Cooking to Perfection: Cook the chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your chicken thighs and the specific model of your air fryer, so it’s essential to monitor them closely.

7. Checking for Doneness: To ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and maintains its tender juiciness.

8. Serving and Enjoying: Once the chicken thighs are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken to enhance the citrusy flavor and serve with additional lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Conclusion: In conclusion, our crispy lemon pepper chicken thighs in the air fryer recipe offers a deliciously simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a classic favorite with a modern twist. With the perfect balance of zesty lemon, aromatic spices, and crispy golden skin, these chicken thighs are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more. So fire up your air fryer, grab your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 275 kcal
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Fat: 19 g
    • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
    • Fiber: 0.5 g
    • Sugars: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
  • Sodium: 450 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brand of ingredients used.