Name: High Protein Sumac Chicken Air Fryer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle eastern
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in skin-on; 2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground; 3 tbsp sumac powder; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tbsp lemon juice, fresh squeezed; 1 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Lemon wedges for serving

Description

How to make high protein sumac chicken with Middle Eastern spices and juicy results that delivers 35g protein per serving in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Base

2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in skin-on
2 tbsp olive oil, extra virgin
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Sumac Spice Blend

3 tbsp sumac powder
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Flavor Enhancers

2 tbsp lemon juice, fresh squeezed
1 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced fresh
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Prep Chicken: Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels and rub with olive oil. Dry chicken is crucial for crispy skin, so don’t rush this step.
Mix Spices: Combine sumac, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne in a small bowl. Whisk together until evenly distributed throughout.
Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper on chicken, then coat generously with spice mixture. Massage spices into skin and let sit 10 minutes minimum.
Make Glaze: Whisk lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, and thyme together. This glaze will add incredible flavor and help create that beautiful golden color.
Air Fry: Place chicken skin-side down in air fryer at 380°F for 12 minutes. Flip, brush with glaze, and cook 8-10 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

Notes

Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning or skin won’t crisp properly.
Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days maximum.
Substitute chicken breasts but reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges for best flavor and texture experience.
Preheat air fryer for 3 minutes before cooking for optimal searing results.
Always use meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Allergy Information: None

Nutrition

Calories: 285 calories
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 35g