1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, chili powder, smoked paprika, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This creates the flavorful spice blend that will coat the chicken. Thoroughly mixing the spices ensures even flavor distribution.

2. Dry and Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp. Then, generously coat the chicken thighs with the spice rub, ensuring even coverage. A dry surface is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer or Oven: Preheat the air fryer or oven to 375°F (190°C). A preheated appliance ensures even cooking and crispy skin. A consistent temperature is essential for even cooking.

Air Fryer Instructions: Quick and Crispy:

4. Cook Skin-Side Down: Place the chicken thighs in the preheated air fryer, skin-side down, and cook for 12 minutes. This initial cooking period allows the skin to render its fat and crisp up. Placing the chicken skin-side down allows the fat to render and the skin to crisp.

5. Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the chicken thighs skin-side up and cook for another 12-14 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. A meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

6. Sauce the Chicken: Once cooked, toss the chicken thighs in buffalo sauce or simply drizzle the sauce over them. This coats the chicken with the signature buffalo flavor. Tossing the chicken in sauce ensures even coating.

Oven Baking Instructions: Classic and Reliable:

7. Bake Skin-Side Up: Place the chicken thighs in the preheated oven, skin-side up, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Do not flip the chicken; keeping it skin-side up ensures crispy skin. Baking the chicken skin-side up allows the skin to crisp evenly.

8. Sauce the Chicken: Once cooked, toss the chicken thighs in buffalo sauce or simply drizzle the sauce over them. This coats the chicken with the signature buffalo flavor. Drizzling the sauce allows for a more controlled application.