Ninja Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Crispy Easy Lemon Herb

By SandraSeptember 18, 2025

Get crispy juicy lemon herb chicken thighs in your Ninja Air Fryer This easy recipe is ready in minutes Say goodbye to bland chicken ... Quick & Easy Recipes

Table of Contents

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some crispy chicken thighs recipe , but short on time? This ninja air fryer recipe is your new best friend.

Oh my gosh, these lemon herb chicken thighs are bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.

Brief Overview

This recipe draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine. It is easy to make and takes around an hour. This recipe will serve 4 hungry people.

Main Benefits

This easy air fryer recipes offers a healthier way to enjoy fried chicken. Air fryer chicken thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Honestly, this recipe is special because it combines amazing flavor with minimal effort.

Getting Started with Your Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Recipe

Ready to make some magic with your ninja air fryer ? Let's get started. I remember the first time I tried air fryer cooking times chicken .

I was amazed at how quickly it cooked. The result was juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.

This ninja air fryer chicken recipe won't disappoint.

You will need some olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and some fresh herbs. This is the best air fryer chicken marinade .

We will also need some bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Don't forget your ninja air fryer cookbook ! I have found some amazing best ninja air fryer recipes in it.

Ninja Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs presentation

Prep Time for Lemon Herb Perfection

Before we dive in, remember to pat those chicken thighs dry. This helps the skin get extra crispy. Mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

It's like a flavour explosion waiting to happen.

Marinate those chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. If you can, leave them overnight for maximum flavor. Trust me; it's worth it.

This marinade is the key to unlocking amazing lemon herb chicken .

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Alright, so you're ready to make some epic ninja air fryer chicken thighs ? Ace! Let's get down to brass tacks with what you'll need.

This crispy chicken thighs recipe is super simple, so the ingredient list won't scare ya, I promise. I love a good lemon herb chicken , and this recipe delivers just that!

Main Ingredients

Olive Oil : 4 tablespoons (60 ml) . Go for extra virgin, it makes a difference in flavor!
Lemon Juice : 2 tablespoons (30 ml) , freshly squeezed if you can. Honestly, it tastes so much brighter.
Garlic : 2 cloves , minced. Don’t be shy; garlic is our friend.
Fresh Rosemary : 1 tablespoon (15 ml) , chopped.
Fresh Thyme : 1 tablespoon (15 ml) , chopped.
Dried Oregano : 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Adds a lovely earthy note.
Salt : ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) .
Black Pepper : ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) , freshly ground.
Chicken Thighs : 4 bone-in, skin-on (about 6-8 ounces/170-227g each). Skin-on is a MUST for that crispy factor.

Seasoning Notes

This air fryer chicken marinade is all about that Mediterranean vibe. Lemon, garlic, and herbs. Can’t go wrong! For a bit of heat, try a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Seriously elevates the whole dish! Don't have fresh herbs? Dried will do in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon dried for every tablespoon fresh.

Honestly, using dried works great in the ninja air fryer recipes as well.

Equipment Needed

Okay, so minimal fuss is the name of the game here. You'll need:

Ninja Air Fryer . Obviously. I use the Ninja Air Fryer AF101, and it's a lifesaver.
A mixing bowl.
Measuring cups and spoons.
Tongs. Essential for flipping without burning your fingers!
Meat thermometer. Really recommend this. It ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .

Don't have an air fryer? You're missing out, mate! Seriously, the air fryer cooking times chicken is much shorter and it's so much healthier! But hey, an oven will do in a pinch.

Just adjust the cooking time.

So there you have it! Easy peasy, right? The best thing about these easy air fryer recipes is that the ingredients are always on hand.

Get your bits sorted, and let’s get cooking that ninja air fryer chicken recipe !

Ninja Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Fancy a super crispy chicken thighs recipe that’s bursting with flavour? Right, let’s dive into this easy air fryer recipes magic.

I mean, who doesn't love a good chicken dish? We're making ninja air fryer chicken recipe ! This recipe takes inspiration from Mediterranean flavours, and it's so simple, anyone can nail it.

You know? It's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual Sunday lunch. This recipe is a real winner.

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Secret

First, let’s get organised. Having everything prepped beforehand is key. It's known as "mise en place". Seriously, it saves a heap of time.

Finely chop those herbs, mince the garlic, measure out the lemon juice and olive oil and you are good to go.

And, a friendly reminder, wash your hands before handling raw chicken! Trust me on this one.

Step-by-Step to Crispy Chicken Nirvana

Here’s how to transform those chicken thighs into golden, crispy perfection in your trusty ninja air fryer :

Mix 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary, 1 tablespoon thyme, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a bowl.
Slather those 4 chicken thighs in the marinade. Get it all in. Get under the skin for maximum flavour. Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . Overnight if you have the time, but that’s just gravy.
Preheat your ninja air fryer to 400° F ( 200° C) for 3 minutes .
Place the chicken thighs, skin-side up, in the ninja air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd! Do them in batches if you need to.
Air fry for 18- 22 minutes . The skin should be golden and crispy. Check the internal temperature is 165° F ( 74° C) .
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Important, do not skip.

Pro Tips : Ninja Air Fryer Edition

For the best crispy chicken thighs recipe , pat the chicken dry before marinating. It helps the skin get extra crispy.

Honestly, this is the key! Don’t overcrowd the basket, otherwise, you'll steam the chicken. Also, if you are looking for the best ninja air fryer recipes , then start here!

Serving Ideas and Delicious Pairings

Serve these lemon herb chicken thighs with some roasted asparagus or creamy mashed potatoes. For something fresher, a Greek salad is just the ticket.

A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio goes down a treat, too! Now, grab your ninja air fryer cookbook and get cooking! I think you might have just created a new ninja air fryer recipes favorite.

Recipe Notes for Your Ninja Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Alright, so you’re ready to tackle these ninja air fryer chicken thighs . Before you dive in, let's run through a few key things.

Trust me, these tips will make your life easier and your chicken even tastier. Honestly, I wish someone had told me these things the first time I used my ninja air fryer .

I mean, the result was good, but could be better, you know?

Serving Suggestions – Let's Get Fancy!

Okay, first up, presentation. Plating can totally elevate a meal! For these crispy chicken thighs recipe , I reckon a simple bed of rocket salad would be ace.

Maybe a squeeze of extra lemon for zing?

As for sides, you can't go wrong with a classic! Think creamy garlic mash or some lemon-roasted asparagus. For a drink? Something light and zesty.

Maybe a glass of cold Pinot Grigio? Or, for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling elderflower cordial. It will do the job perfectly!

Storage Tips – Keepin' It Fresh

Right, what if you have leftovers? (If you do, you're lucky!). Store those air fryer chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge.

They’ll be good for up to 3 days. Honestly, my other half says they taste even better cold straight from the fridge – each to their own!

Freezing? Yeah, you can freeze cooked chicken. Let it cool completely first. Then wrap each thigh individually in cling film before popping them into a freezer bag.

They'll be good for up to 2 months. To reheat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, whack them back in the ninja air fryer at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 5- 7 minutes, or until heated through.

Make sure the internal temperature is at least 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations – Let's Get Creative!

Feeling adventurous? For a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. It gives these easy air fryer recipes a little something special.

Or, fancy different herbs? Swap the rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a Mediterranean herb mix, like herbes de Provence. Works a treat, it does!

If you're watching the carbs, this lemon herb chicken is naturally keto-friendly. Just make sure your lemon juice is pure without added sugar.

Nutrition Basics – Goodness in Every Bite

Each serving of these ninja air fryer chicken recipe comes in around 420 calories. You're getting a good 35g of protein and about 28g of fat.

Carbs are low at about 3g. That's an estimate, mind you. It’ll depend on your exact ingredients, you know? These air fryer chicken marinade thighs are packed with protein and healthy fats.

Plus, the herbs and lemon offer loads of vitamins.

Give these best ninja air fryer recipes a go. You might even start your own ninja air fryer cookbook . You got this! Don't be shy about experimenting.

The best cooking happens when you're having a laugh and trying new things. If you have the ninja air fryer AF101 then follow the air fryer cooking times chicken as per the instructions manual of the product! And share your creations! Let me know how you got on!

Ninja Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Lemon Herb Perfection

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my chicken thighs are extra crispy in the ninja air fryer?

For that coveted crispy skin, pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels before marinating. This removes excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully in the Ninja air fryer. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket – cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation for even crisping.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs in my Ninja Air Fryer, or do they need to be thawed first?

While it's always best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in your Ninja Air Fryer. However, you'll need to increase the cooking time significantly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind the skin might not get as crispy. For best results, I recommend thawing them in the fridge overnight – think of it as a bit of forward planning, like booking a holiday!

What temperature and time settings are best for cooking chicken thighs in a Ninja Air Fryer?

For these lemon herb chicken thighs, preheating your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) is key. Then, air fry the chicken for 18-22 minutes. Remember, cooking times can vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken thighs, so always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Think of it as your culinary safety net!

How long can I store leftover air fryer chicken thighs, and how do I reheat them?

Leftover air fryer chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the Ninja Air Fryer again for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispiness. Alternatively, you can gently reheat them in the oven or microwave, but the skin might not be as crispy. It's a bit like a takeaway curry - best enjoyed fresh, but still good the next day!

I'm watching my calorie intake. What are some ways to make this ninja air fryer chicken recipe healthier?

That's a cracking question! To lighten up this recipe, you can trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs before marinating. You could also opt for skinless chicken thighs, although you'll sacrifice some crispiness. Using a light olive oil spray instead of pouring the oil into the marinade can also reduce the overall fat content. Serve with steamed vegetables or a big salad instead of mashed potatoes for a healthier, balanced meal – think lean, green, and serene!

Can I adapt this recipe for other cuts of chicken in the Ninja Air Fryer?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs work beautifully, you can adapt this recipe for other cuts. Chicken breasts will cook faster, so reduce the cooking time accordingly and be extra vigilant about not overcooking them (start checking around 15 minutes). Drumsticks will also work well, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Just remember the internal temperature needs to hit 165F regardless! Experimenting is half the fun, innit?