These Spiced Lemon Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of bold flavours and juicy tenderness. Marinated in a zesty blend of paprika, garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh lemon juice, each bite bursts with a deliciously tangy kick. Whether you cook them in the air fryer for crispy skin or in the oven method, these chicken thighs are incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Serve them hot for a juicy, flavourful meal your family will love!
In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, sugar, red pepper flakes, dried parsley, garlic salt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir well to form a marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate overnight.
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C)
Remove chicken thighs from the marinade and shake off any excess.
Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air fry for an additional 10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve hot as a delicious main dish. Enjoy this juicy and flavourful spiced lemon chicken thighs!
Notes
Optional Cooking Method - Oven:
Preheat the oven to 420°F (215°C).
Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Bake for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown.
Leftovers: Allow the cooked chicken thighs to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 daysReheating:
Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Place the chicken thighs in the basket and air fry for 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Microwave: If using the microwave, heat the chicken in 30-second intervals, but be aware that the skin may not remain crispy.