Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it in evenly.
Season the chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using) over both sides of the chicken thighs. Rub the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden and crispy.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a salad.