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Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe – Easy Dinner

air fryer lemon herb chicken - featured image

This crispy air fryer lemon herb chicken is quick, easy, and delivers deep comfort food satisfaction without taking all evening. The bright lemon and herbs cut through the richness of the chicken, and the crispy skin is unbeatable.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs or 680g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or loose skin.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until evenly distributed.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and rub it in with your hands. Sprinkle the lemon herb rub all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin if possible. Place the seasoned chicken on a plate, cover loosely, and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
  6. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 18 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the chicken using tongs. Continue cooking for the remaining 8 minutes.
  7. Check for doneness: the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
  8. Let the chicken rest in the air fryer basket (turned off) for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, bump the temperature up to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes on a wire rack over a baking sheet.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, lemon herb chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten-free, low-carb