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Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs from a top view, served on a plate

Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

These Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are an easy, flavorful dinner made with juicy chicken thighs, rich butter, fresh garlic, and simple herbs and spices. The air fryer creates beautifully browned, flavorful chicken with minimal effort and cleanup.
Serve them with roasted vegetables, potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a satisfying weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs about 6–8 ounces each
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped, optional
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. Trim any large pieces of excess fat if necessary.
  2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes or lemon zest if using.
  3. Coat the chicken: Rub the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh. For skin-on thighs, gently place some of the butter underneath the skin as well.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if your model recommends preheating.
  5. Arrange the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side up. Leave space between the pieces so the hot air can circulate.
  6. Air fry: Cook for approximately 18–25 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs and your air fryer. Turn the chicken halfway through cooking if needed for even browning.
  7. Check the temperature: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of each thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is ready when it reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest the chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, a little fresh lemon juice. Serve immediately with your favorite vegetables, potatoes, rice, or salad.