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Crispy Lemon Herb Air Fryer Chicken

crispy lemon herb air fryer chicken - featured image

This crispy lemon herb air fryer chicken is bright, herby, and the skin gets so shatteringly crisp you’ll hear it when you bite in. It’s spring on a plate, ready in under 35 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
  • Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels on both sides, including under the skin.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss with your hands, making sure every piece is well coated. Get the herb mixture under the skin as well.
  4. Optional: Place the seasoned chicken on a plate and refrigerate uncovered for 15 minutes to dry the skin further for extra crispiness.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each piece. Cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Cook for 12 minutes undisturbed.
  8. Flip the chicken using tongs so the skin side is facing up. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) in the thickest part (not touching bone). The skin should be deep golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. The carryover cooking will bring the temperature to 165°F (74°C).
  10. Transfer to a serving platter, squeeze extra lemon juice over the top, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken completely dry for crispy skin. Let the seasoned chicken rest in the fridge uncovered for 15 minutes if time allows. Use an instant-read thermometer for best results; pull chicken at 160°F and let rest to reach 165°F. Do not crowd the air fryer basket. For oven method, bake at 425°F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, lemon herb chicken, crispy chicken thighs, spring dinner, easy chicken recipe