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Crispy Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy lemon pepper air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy air fryer recipe for crispy, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with lemon pepper and garlic powder, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Zest of 1 fresh lemon
  • Fresh lemon juice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin is as dry as possible for crisping.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the chicken thighs.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and fresh lemon zest from one lemon. Toss well to coat evenly.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  6. Cook for 9-10 minutes, then flip the thighs using tongs and cook for another 9-10 minutes until the skin is golden-brown and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry before seasoning is key to achieving crispy skin. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning. If the chicken isn’t crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free, low-carb