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Quick Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Air Fryer

air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy, juicy garlic parmesan chicken thighs made in the air fryer in under 30 minutes. A simple, weeknight-friendly recipe that delivers shatter-crisp skin and tender meat every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional for serving: fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, especially the skin side.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until evenly distributed, breaking up any clumps.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs and use your hands to coat them evenly.
  4. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken thighs, turning to coat all sides. Press the seasoning gently into the skin.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up, in a single layer without crowding.
  7. Cook at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 10-minute mark.
  8. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F minimum, ideally 170-175°F.
  9. Let the chicken rest in the air fryer basket (turned off) for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Pat the chicken very dry for crispiest skin. Preheat the air fryer for best results. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Let chicken rest before serving to keep juices in. For extra crispiness, increase heat to 425°F for the last 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, crispy chicken thighs, quick chicken dinner, weeknight chicken recipe