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Crispy Air Fryer Keto Chicken Thighs

Golden skin, juicy dark meat, and only 1.3g net carbs per serving. The definitive air fryer keto chicken thigh recipe — weeknights, meal prep, and everything in between.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (6-7 oz each)
  • 1.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp aluminium-free baking powder
  • 1-2 tsp avocado or olive oil

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer
  • 1 Meat thermometer
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • Paper towels
  • 1 Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels — including under the skin. Any surface moisture prevents crispy skin.
  2. Step 2: Combine all dry seasonings in a small bowl until evenly mixed with no clumps.
  3. Step 3: Rub a thin layer of oil over each thigh. A light coating only.
  4. Step 4: Press the seasoning blend onto all surfaces. Lift the skin and season the meat underneath.
  5. Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Step 6: Place thighs skin-side down in a single layer. Do not crowd the basket.
  7. Step 7: Cook skin-side down for 10 minutes to render the fat from underneath.
  8. Step 8: Flip skin-side up. Cook a further 8-12 minutes until skin is deep golden and internal temperature reads 175-185°F at the thickest point.
  9. Step 9: Rest 5 minutes before serving. The skin continues to crisp as the juices settle.

Notes

Nutrition per thigh (approx.): 280 calories | 1.3g net carbs | 21g protein | 20g fat. Values based on a 6 oz bone-in skin-on thigh with the seasoning blend above. Actual values vary by thigh size and spice brand.
Always use aluminium-free baking powder. Regular baking powder leaves a metallic taste. The baking powder does not add carbs and is the single most effective technique for crispy skin without breading.