This easy chicken supper starts with a quick seasoning consisting of freshly squeezed lemon juice, lots of garlic, and a little honey. Everything is then cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Although grilling these lemon garlic chicken thighs would be delicious as well, we appreciate that the air fryer is always ready to go and that you don’t have to keep an eye on the chicken. Insert it, then watch the magic happen.
The air fryer helps cook chicken perfectly—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. In this article, we’ll explore the health benefits, nutrient data, and cooking tips to help you make this delicious meal.
Course Chicken
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10
Cook Time 25
Ingredients
- Four skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
- Half a cup of olive oil
- Three teaspoons of honey
- Four minced garlic cloves
- Two tablespoons of lemon juice
- One teaspoon of paprika
- One teaspoon of salt
- One teaspoon of cracked pepper
- Half a teaspoon of onion powder
- Serve with lemon wedges and parsley.
Directions
- Using a paper towel, pat dry the chicken thighs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Over the chicken, liberally brush the mixture. Another option is to put the spice in a big bowl, then add the chicken and toss to coat.
- Over the chicken, liberally brush the mixture. Another option is to put the spice in a big bowl, then add the chicken and toss to coat.
- Apply nonstick cooking spray to the air fryer basket and place the chicken thighs in a single layer. For 25 to 30 minutes, air fried at 350 degrees, turning halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when a thermometer inserted inside it reads 165 degrees.
- Sprinkle with parsley and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Notes
- Halfway through cooking, make careful to turn the chicken over. To prevent burning, flip the chicken again if the skin starts to seem overly browned near the conclusion of cooking.
- This chicken tastes great cooked right away, but if you want the spices to truly seep into the chicken, you can season it and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking.
Nutrient Data for Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Here’s the nutrient breakdown for one serving of lemon garlic chicken thighs (about one medium chicken thigh, skinless):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Vitamin C | 5mg |
| Calcium | 20mg |
| Iron | 1.5mg |
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Protein: Supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Healthy Fats: Provide energy and help absorb vitamins.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic and lemon add immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin C and calcium.
Health Advantages of Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs serve as an excellent source of protein and beneficial fats. When combined with lemon and garlic, this recipe also delivers key vitamins and minerals. Here’s why lemon garlic chicken thighs are advantageous for your health:
- Abundant in Protein: Chicken thighs are an outstanding source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and development.
- Enhances Immune Function: Garlic is well-known for its immune-enhancing effects, and lemon offers vitamin C, which is vital for your immune system.
- Beneficial Fats: Chicken thighs include healthy fats, particularly if the skin is removed before cooking, promoting heart health.
- Low Carbohydrate Content: This dish is inherently low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or ketogenic lifestyles.
Cooking Recommendations for Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Opt for Skinless Thighs: Skinless chicken thighs have reduced fat while retaining the meat’s tenderness and juiciness.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: For optimal crispiness, ensure that the thighs are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Verify Internal Temperature: Utilize a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Include Lemon Zest: Don’t overlook the lemon zest. It infuses a lively citrus flavor.
- Garlic Alternatives: If you desire a subtler garlic taste, garlic powder can be used instead of fresh garlic.
Why Prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer?
The air fryer provides numerous benefits when cooking chicken thighs:
- Quick and Convenient: The air fryer cooks chicken more rapidly than traditional methods, saving you time in the kitchen.
- Healthier Preparation: You can achieve crispy chicken with minimal to no oil, lowering fat and caloric content.
- Uniform Cooking: The circulating hot air guarantees your chicken is cooked consistently, giving it a moist interior and crispy outer layer.
Concluding Remarks
Lemon garlic chicken thighs prepared in the air fryer are a swift, nutritious, and flavorful dish. Loaded with protein, healthy fats, and vital vitamins, this meal supports overall well-being. By adhering to these easy cooking suggestions, you can savor a scrumptious, nourishing dish that’s ideal for weekday dinners or meal prepping.
