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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Best Buttermilk Brine Recipe

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Juicy, tender chicken thighs brined in buttermilk and air-fried to golden perfection. This recipe delivers a shattering crispy crust and moist interior with minimal active time.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Thighs (boneless, skin-on)
  • Buttermilk (full-fat)
  • Garlic Powder
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Onion Powder
  • Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
  • Kosher Salt
  • Neutral Oil (avocado or vegetable)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Whisk until spices are mostly dissolved.
  2. Place chicken thighs in the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a ziplock bag, squeezing out excess air.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  5. Remove chicken from brine and shake off excess liquid. Do not pat completely dry.
  6. Lightly sprinkle with extra salt and pepper if desired, then drizzle with oil. Rub oil and spices into the skin to create an even coating.
  7. Place thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes.
  8. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove from air fryer and let rest on a plate for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving a crispy skin. If the skin isn’t crispy enough, air fry for an additional 2 minutes. Chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, crispy chicken thighs, buttermilk brine, healthy dinner, weeknight meals, gluten-free, low-carb

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-best-buttermilk-brine-recipe/