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Crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed, these Air-Fried Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Lime Dressing come together effortlessly for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!

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Air-Fried Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Lime Dressing

Taylor Jackzen
Crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed, these Air-Fried Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Lime Dressing come together effortlessly for a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for any night of the week!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Thighs

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cilantro Lime Dressing

  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonaisse
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (198°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil or melted butter with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoning mixture.
  • Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded and have some space between them.
  • Cook the chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer for 20-22 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
  • Flip thighs halfway through the cooking time, ensuring the thighs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  • Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • In a blender or food processor, add the fresh cilantro leaves, lime juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  • Blend the ingredients on medium speed until smooth and well combined. If needed, scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
  • Taste the dressing and adjust the flavors as desired. Add more lime juice for tanginess, or salt and pepper for seasoning.
  • Serve chicken thighs hot as a main dish with cilantro lime sauce on the side along with your favorite side dishes.