These Dijon Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. The tangy Dijon mustard marinade infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of honey creates a beautiful glaze as it cooks, while the air fryer ensures the skin becomes irresistibly crisp. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main dish, these chicken thighs will deliver bold flavors with minimal effort. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Brush the marinade generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket, skin side up. Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) for the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Pair with roasted potatoes or a light cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
