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Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Thighs

This crispy air fryer chicken recipe is a total lifesaver when you need dinner fast but want it to taste like you spent hours cooking. The buttermilk marinade makes the chicken thighs super tender and flavorful, while the air fryer gives them that crunchy, golden skin without all the oil. It’s one of the best chicken thigh recipes air fryer style that my family keeps asking for again and again!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 –6 bone-in chicken thighs skin-on for extra crispiness!
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat!

Instructions
 

Step 1 – Make the marinade

  • In a big bowl, mix the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add cayenne if you want it spicy! Stir it together.

Step 2 – Marinate the chicken

  • Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, leave it overnight.

Step 3 – Preheat the air fryer

  • Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it warm up for a few minutes.

Step 4 – Cook the chicken

  • Take the thighs out and shake off extra marinade. Place them in the air fryer basket in one layer. Cook for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until the internal temp is 165°F or until the juices run clear.

Step 5 – Rest and serve

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps it juicy and super tasty!

Notes

Tips

  • Marinate early in the day to let the flavors soak in.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
  • A quick spray of oil before air frying helps crisp up the skin even more.
  • Use a meat thermometer to be sure the chicken is fully cooked.

Variations

✔ Lemon herb twist: Add some fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a bright, herby flavor.
✔ Spicy version: Add extra cayenne or chili powder for a little heat that the whole family will love.
✔ Garlic butter finish: After cooking, brush the thighs with melted garlic butter for an extra rich flavor.
✔ Make it dairy-free: Swap the buttermilk for a mixture of plain yogurt and a splash of lemon juice.