Air Fryer Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs — Who doesn’t love a good piece of chicken? And when that chicken is rubbed with a delicious Caribbean-inspired spice rub, it’s even better. This air fryer chicken recipe is easy to make and so tasty. You’re going to want to put it on your regular dinner rotation!

The best things in life are easy, right? This air-fried Caribbean-rubbed chicken Thighs recipe is simple and delicious. With just a few ingredients, you can have a healthy meal on the table in no time! Plus, the sweet and spicy Caribbean flavor will transport you to your favorite island vacation spot. So fire up your air fryer, and let’s get cooking!

What Are Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs?

The Caribbean rubbed chicken thighs are a type of chicken dish typically made with a combination of spices. The spices used in this dish vary depending on the region, but they typically include chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. This dish is often served with rice and beans and can also be served with various other sides.

Caribbean-rubbed chicken thighs are a popular choice for both casual and formal dinners. They can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. Caribbean-rubbed chicken thighs are a great option if you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve at a dinner party.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs

Here are the simple ingredients you will need:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken: Use either boneless or bone-in chicken thighs. The cooking time will vary based on the cut of the chicken.
• Seasonings and Spices: Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Dried Basil, Dried Thyme, and Paprika.

How to Cook Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs In Air Fryer

Here are the step-by-step directions to make Air Fried Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs:

In a small bowl, mix the ingredients for the Caribbean seasoning. Rub the spice over the chicken, both the back and front. Please place them in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray.

Set the temperature to 350 degrees F for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, spray the chicken generously with olive oil and air fry for another 20-25 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be 165 degrees F, before removing it.

Pro Tips

Here are some pro tips to make delicious Air Fryer Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs:

• Marinate for Flavor: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the Caribbean spice rub for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the taste.
• Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Paint the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before applying the spice rub. This helps the spice rub adhere better to the surface of the chicken and promotes even cooking.
• Use Bone-in, Skin-on Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless, skinless ones. The skin crisps up nicely in the air fryer, adding a delicious texture.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken thighs. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately and helps to achieve a crispy exterior.
• Don’t Crowd the Basket: Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping. This allows for proper air circulation around each piece, resulting in evenly cooked chicken.
• Flip Halfway Through: Using tongs or a spatula, flip the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure that both sides cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If needed, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
• Let Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, producing juicier and more tender chicken.
• Serve with Fresh Citrus: Before serving, squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the cooked chicken thighs to add a burst of brightness and acidity that complements the Caribbean flavors.

Following these pro tips, you’ll be able to make perfectly seasoned and juicy Air Fryer Caribbean Rubbed Chicken Thighs that are sure to impress!

Faq’s

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe? While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs typically result in juicier and more flavorful chicken, you can use boneless, skinless thighs if preferred. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time as boneless thighs may cook faster.

What is a good substitute for Caribbean spice rub if I don’t have it? If you don’t have Caribbean spice rub, you can create a similar flavor profile using a combination of spices such as paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a hint of cayenne pepper for heat. Adjust the proportions to your taste preferences.

How long should I marinate the chicken thighs? Marinate the chicken thighs in the Caribbean spice rub for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to permeate the meat. For even more flavor, you can marinate them for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Can I cook other cuts of chicken using this recipe? Yes, you can use this recipe for other cuts of chicken such as drumsticks or chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require different cooking times.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for this recipe? Preheating the air fryer is recommended for optimal results. Preheating helps ensure that the chicken starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy exterior.

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the chicken thighs in a conventional oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I know when the chicken thighs are done cooking? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Can I make a larger batch of chicken thighs in the air fryer? You can make a larger batch of chicken thighs in the air fryer, but be sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook them in multiple batches if needed to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
• Honey Sriracha Air Fryer Chicken

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