Not only are Air Fryer Chicken Thighs packed with bold flavors, but we’ve added flavor variations like Cajun Spice, Zesty Tex-Mex, and Flavors of India so you can mix it up and never get bored! The whole family will love this one!
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Air Fry Chicken Thighs recipe! With just a simple rub of basic seasoning, these chicken drumsticks are infused with our favorite bold flavors. And for those of you who like to play around with different flavors, we offer variations like Cajun-spiced, Zesty Tex-Mex and Flavors of India – your taste buds will never get bored! This recipe is not only delicious, but also quick and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner for busy families or to host a game night. All you need is an air fryer, chicken drumsticks and your choice of seasoning. In just 20-25 minutes you’ll have perfectly cooked and juicy legs that the whole family will love. You’ll never have to settle for boring and dry chicken again!
How long do I have to cook chicken drumsticks in the air fryer?
It typically takes 20-25 minutes to cook chicken drumsticks in an air fryer, depending on the size of the drumsticks and your air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in an air fryer. However, cooking may take a few minutes longer. Be sure to use an indoor thermometer to ensure the indoor temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is oil necessary?
If you’re using a variant that doesn’t contain citrus juice, it’s recommended that you lightly baste the drumsticks with cooking oil or melted butter to give them a crispy texture. However, if you’re using a variant that contains citrus juice, you don’t have to.
Can I use different chicken parts?
Can I use different chicken parts?
Yes, you absolutely can! Chicken breasts, thighs, or wings all work well in the air fryer. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken.
Storage and reheating instructions
To store the cooked chicken drumsticks, allow them to cool to room temperature before placing in an airtight container. Properly stored cooked chicken drumsticks will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It’s best to reheat them in the air fryer or oven to regain crispness if you like. If you have leftover spices, you can store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
If you like this recipe, you might be interested in these other delicious air fryer recipes:
Not only are Air Fryer Chicken Thighs packed with bold flavors, but we’ve added flavor variations like Cajun Spice, Zesty Tex-Mex, and Flavors of India so you can mix it up and never get bored! The whole family will love this one!
ingredients
- 10 chicken thighs
- A light dash of cooking oil or melted butter
- 2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
instructions
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Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 5 minutes.
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If using a flavor that doesn’t contain citrus juice, lightly baste the drumsticks with cooking oil or melted butter.
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In a small mixing bowl, combine paprika, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
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Sprinkle the spice mixture over the drumsticks, making sure they are evenly coated. You can also rub the spice mixture under the skin if desired.
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Place the drumsticks in the air fryer and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes. Turn the legs halfway through cooking.
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Once the chicken’s internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Remarks
For a Cajun-spiced twist:
1 teaspoon of paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
For a spicy Tex-Mex twist:
Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chilli powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
For a Flavors of India variant:
juice of 1 lemon (about 1/4 cup)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons of peppers
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Note: There is no need to smear chicken drumsticks with oil when using a citrus juice flavor.
Portion: 2drumsticks | Calories: 255kcal | Carbohydrates: 4G | Protein: 27G | Fat: 14G | Saturated Fatty Acids: 4G | Polyunsaturated fat: 3G | Monounsaturated fatty acids: 6G | Trans fats: 0.1G | Cholesterol: 139mg | Sodium: 624mg | Potassium: 383mg | Fiber: 1G | Sugar: 2G | Vitamin A: 474ie | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 2mg
