Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
2. 2 In a small bowl, mix lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3 Rub olive oil over chicken thighs, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. 4 Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
5. 5 Arrange chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they are not touching.
6. 6 Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. 7 Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Baking sheet

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
• Substitute chicken thighs with chicken drumsticks for a different cut.

Substitutions

• If lemon pepper isn't available, use a mix of black pepper and lemon zest.
• Substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.

Pairings

• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon flavor.
• A light vinaigrette works well with the accompanying salad.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra crispiness, let the seasoned thighs rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Shake your air fryer basket gently halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes.

FAQ