Description
Crispy Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs with Avocado Sauce are juicy, tender chicken thighs with perfectly crisp edges served alongside a creamy, fresh avocado sauce. This easy high-protein dinner comes together quickly and is packed with bright, flavorful ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp water, as needed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for crispy chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps achieve crispier edges.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Arrange in air fryer basket: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Air fry for 10–12 minutes, then flip the thighs and cook for an additional 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and crispy. Verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Prepare the avocado sauce: While the chicken cooks, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm alongside the creamy avocado sauce.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps create crispier edges.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Chicken thighs vary in size; you may need to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add jalapeño or chili flakes to the avocado sauce for extra heat.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Avocado sauce is best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
