Cooking the perfect chicken in an air fryer isn’t as hard as it may seem. All you need is some simple techniques and tricks that will give you a tasty, crunchy, and juicy end result. Here’s how to make chicken skin crispy in an air fryer so your family won’t be able to resist tasting it every single time.
My method for crispy chicken thigh skin
Making crispy chicken thigh skin is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without deep frying it. The key to achieving the perfect crunchy texture is to preheat the air fryer and spray it with cooking spray.
Start by patting dry the chicken thighs and mixing them with seasonings of your choice. Place the skin side down in the air fryer basket and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165F.
Once cooked, serve the Crispy Chicken Thighs with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread for a classic American dinner. For a more unique twist, try serving it Filipino-style with sweet spaghetti or a warm cup of rice.
To make this dish even more special, try making homemade gravy to go along with the chicken thighs for an extra special touch. This method lets you enjoy perfectly crispy chicken thigh skin every time.
Nutrition (per serving)
A crispy chicken thigh skin serving contains approximately 200 calories, 10 grams of fat, and 18 grams of protein. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B6.
Additionally, it contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber which can help to keep you feeling full for longer. This dish is also low in carbohydrates making it an ideal choice for those following a low-carb diet.
Storing and reheating tips
Storing and reheating leftovers can be a great way to save time and money. Proper storage and reheating techniques are essential for preserving the quality of your food. When storing leftovers, using an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days is important.
This will help keep your food fresh and prevent bacteria from growing. When it comes time to reheat, you have several options. An oven or air fryer at 375 degrees F for 15 minutes, an oven at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes, or a microwave for 3 minutes all work well.
For chicken, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, then reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350 degrees F. If you plan on freezing chicken thighs, make sure to use an airtight freezer-safe storage container and freeze them for up to 3 months. Following these tips will ensure that your leftovers are safe and delicious every time.
Tips and variations
Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a great way to get juicy, flavorful results without the added fat of deep-frying. It’s important to remember that chicken should always be cooked to at least 165 degrees for safety reasons.
Boneless chicken thighs are ideal for air frying and can be seasoned with a variety of spices and sauces. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties but may stain, so it’s best to add it during the last five minutes of cooking.
Paprika powder, cayenne pepper, old bay seasoning, and Italian seasoning are all great options for adding flavor to your dish. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your air fryer, so make sure you check the internal temperature before serving.
For extra crispy skin, try brushing the chicken thighs with a little oil before cooking. This will help to create a golden-brown, crunchy exterior. You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for an even crispier finish.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using olive oil or avocado oil instead of vegetable oil. Finally, if you want to add some extra flavor, try adding a few drops of your favorite hot sauce or BBQ sauce to the chicken before cooking.
For an even crispier skin, try preheating the air fryer before adding the chicken. This will help to ensure that the skin gets nice and crispy.
Additionally, make sure to shake the basket or turn the chicken over halfway through cooking for even browning. Finally, if you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a non-stick cooking spray instead of oil.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a great way to get juicy, flavorful results without the added fat of deep-frying. To make sure your chicken skin is extra crispy, try preheating the air fryer before adding the chicken and brushing it with oil or a non-stick cooking spray.
Additionally, you can season your chicken with a variety of spices and sauces for added flavor. Finally, make sure to shake the basket or turn the chicken over halfway through cooking for even browning. Following these tips will ensure that your chicken skin is perfectly crispy every time.
Meet our air fryer recipe expert, Jenny J. Brown. Jenny is a culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating healthy, delicious meals using the latest kitchen appliances. As an experienced home cook and food blogger, Jenny has spent years experimenting with air fryer recipes and perfecting her techniques to create meals that are both nutritious and satisfying.
