These Air Fryer Chicken Thighs and Potatoes are a tasty duo! The chicken is juicy and savory, while the potatoes turn out crispy and golden. A dinner that checks all the boxes!
Making this meal is super easy! Just season everything, toss it in the air fryer, and wait for the magic to happen. Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs give the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts work, but they may dry out quicker, so watch the cooking time.
Baby Potatoes: These are great because they cook evenly and are tender. If they’re not available, you can use red or Yukon Gold potatoes, just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This helps to crisp up the skin. If you prefer, avocado oil can also be used here as it has a higher smoke point.
Spices: The garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, and oregano create nice flavors. You could substitute fresh herbs if you have them. Just use about three times more fresh herbs than dried.
Fresh Parsley: This is for garnish, and it adds a fresh touch. You can skip it or use other herbs like cilantro or chives if you prefer.
How Do I Achieve Juicy Chicken Thighs and Crispy Potatoes in an Air Fryer?
The key to juicy chicken thighs is to properly marinate them before cooking. Take time to mix the marinade well and ensure every part of the chicken is coated. Allowing at least 15-20 minutes to marinate enhances the flavor significantly. While they marinate, prepare your potatoes.
- Preheat the air fryer for best results; this helps start the cooking at the right temperature.
- When placing the chicken, skin-side down in the basket, this allows the skin to render and become crispy while cooking.
- Flipping the chicken and tossing the potatoes halfway through helps achieve even cooking and browning.
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Potatoes:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Marinade:
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation time, and around 25-30 minutes to cook in the air fryer. If you can let the chicken marinate for a little while, it will enhance the flavors even more. Overall, you can have a delicious meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure your chicken and potatoes cook evenly and get that nice crispy texture.
2. Create the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade, making sure they are well coated on all sides. If you have time, let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes to soak in those delicious flavors.
4. Prepare the Potatoes:
In another bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and any leftover marinade. This will give the potatoes a tasty seasoning as well.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the basket. Surround the chicken with the halved baby potatoes.
6. Cook the Meal:
Cook in the air fryer for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to flip the chicken and toss the potatoes halfway through cooking for even results. The dish is ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are golden and tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the chicken and potatoes from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious air-fried chicken thighs and potatoes!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken thighs! They may not get as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as skinless thighs tend to cook faster. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables for Baby Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them as they may require different cooking times — softer veggies like zucchini will cook faster than potatoes!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through, to help retain that crispy texture.
Can I Marinade the Chicken Thighs Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken thighs overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Enjoy the extra flavor boost!
