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Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs - Crispy, Zesty, and Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best crisp; 4–6 thighs)
  • Lemon (zest and juice)
  • Lemon pepper seasoning (look for one without too much salt)
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper (freshly cracked, if possible)
  • Olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Butter (optional, for a quick lemon-butter drizzle)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Dry skin equals crisp skin, so take a moment with this step.
  2. Make the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine 1.5 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Zest one lemon into the bowl and stir to combine.
  3. Coat the thighs: Drizzle 1–2 tablespoons olive oil over the chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on all sides. Gently press it in so it sticks.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps jump-start crisping.
  5. Arrange the chicken: Place thighs skin-side down in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Work in batches if needed.
  6. Cook skin-side down first: Air fry for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This renders some fat and sets the seasoning.
  7. Flip and finish: Turn the thighs skin-side up and cook another 8–12 minutes, until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 175°F–190°F for bone-in thighs or 170°F–180°F for boneless. Dark meat shines at higher temps, staying juicy while the connective tissue melts.
  8. Optional lemon-butter drizzle: Melt 1 tablespoon butter with the juice of half a lemon. Spoon over the hot chicken for extra shine and tang.
  9. Rest and serve: Let the thighs rest 3–5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra lemon wedges.