Air Fryer Turkey Thighs
Description
Crispy-skinned, juicy bone-in turkey thighs made in the air fryer, perfect for a small Thanksgiving or a cozy weeknight turkey dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 bone-in, skin-on turkey thighs, (2.5 to 3 lb total)
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil, or melted butter
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
Instructions
- Pat the turkey thighs very dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
- Rub the thighs all over with oil. Season all sides with the spice mix, including under the skin.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Place the thighs skin-side down in a single layer. Air fry for 20 minutes.
- Flip the thighs skin-side up. Air fry for 15 to 25 minutes more, until the thickest part reaches 175°F.
- Rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Equipment
- Instant-read thermometer
- Tongs, optional
Notes
- Cook times vary by air fryer model and thigh size, so start checking the temperature at 35 minutes.
- Turkey is safe at 165°F, but 175–180°F gives the most tender dark meat.
- For boneless thighs, air fry for 18 to 25 minutes total.
- For extra flavor and crispier skin, dry brine the salted thighs uncovered in the refrigerator for 4 to 24 hours before cooking.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 52kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 0.3mgSodium: 875mgPotassium: 24mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 253IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.4mg