Ingredients:

  • 4 medium Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs (approx. 900 g / 2 lbs)
  • 1 Tbsp Kosher Salt (or flaky sea salt)
  • 1 tsp Light Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Neutral Oil (e.g., Grapeseed or Canola)

Instructions:

  1. Pat Dry: Remove the chicken thighs from packaging. Using an excessive amount of paper towels, firmly pat every surface of the skin and meat until they feel completely dry.
  2. Combine Rub: In a small bowl, combine the salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
  3. Rub Thoroughly: Generously coat all surfaces of the chicken thighs with the rub mixture, focusing especially on getting the rub into all the crevices of the skin.
  4. Chill (The Secret Weapon): Place the rubbed thighs skin-side up on a plate or tray. Transfer the plate uncovered to the refrigerator for a minimum of 60 minutes (up to 4 hours) to dry brine the skin and draw out moisture.
  5. Brush Lightly: Remove the chilled thighs from the fridge. Very lightly brush the skin surface of each thigh with a small amount of neutral oil.
  6. Preheat and Load: Preheat the Ninja Foodi or air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up in the air fryer basket, ensuring adequate space between pieces. Cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Initial Crisp (High Heat): Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes.
  8. Flip and Continue: Carefully flip the chicken thighs. Continue to air fry at 200°C (400°F) for another 5 minutes.
  9. Lower Heat Finish: Reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F). Flip the chicken back to skin-side up and cook for a final 7–10 minutes.
  10. Check Internal Temperature: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is safe and ready when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
  11. Rest: Remove the crispy thighs and place them on a cutting board or clean plate. Let them rest uncovered for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.