Crispy Curry Spiced Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
These crispy curry spiced chicken thighs are juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and packed with cozy warm spices. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but flavorful. My three teenagers love them, and they disappear fast!
Ingredients
- 4 to 6 chicken thighs bone-in or boneless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley optional for garnish
Instructions
Step 1 – Dry the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps make them extra crispy when they cook.
Step 2 – Add Oil, Salt and Pepper
- Place the chicken in a bowl. Add olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to coat every piece evenly.
Step 3 – Mix the Spices
- In a small bowl, combine curry powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Sprinkle over the chicken and rub it in so it is fully coated.
Step 4 – Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 C). Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
- Remove chicken from the air fryer. Sprinkle dried parsley on top if you like. Serve with rice, salad, or bread.
Notes
Tips
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is key for crispy skin.
- Bone-in thighs stay juicier but boneless cooks faster.
- Let the seasoned chicken sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before cooking to boost flavor.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back crispiness.
Variations
- Add a little turmeric or smoked paprika to the spice mix for a different flavor.
- Make it spicy by adding more cayenne or chili powder.
- Serve with a yogurt cucumber dip or mango chutney for a fun twist.
- Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or wings if preferred.