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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe Easy and Perfect

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs air fryer - featured image

This crispy garlic Parmesan chicken thighs recipe made in the air fryer delivers a golden, crunchy crust with juicy meat inside. Perfect for quick, fuss-free weeknight dinners with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds or 700 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (50 grams), gluten-free if needed
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Lightly spray chicken thighs with olive oil spray on both sides. Press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes. If skipped, add 2-3 minutes to cooking time.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces for air circulation.
  6. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes. Flip chicken carefully using tongs, then cook for another 8-10 minutes skin-side up until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Use a light spray of olive oil to help the coating brown. Flip chicken carefully to keep coating intact. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving. For reheating, use air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Variations include adding cayenne pepper for heat or swapping Parmesan with nutritional yeast for dairy-free option.

Nutrition

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