Print

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic parmesan air fryer chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, garlicky, parmesan-coated chicken thighs cooked perfectly in the air fryer. Juicy inside with a golden, crunchy crust, ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free panko optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, paprika (if using), and salt. Mix well.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over chicken thighs and rub it in. Press each thigh into the garlic-parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly. Let rest on a plate for 5 minutes.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket with space between pieces. Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes, flip, then cook another 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden and crispy.

Notes

Pat chicken dry to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking. Press coating firmly onto chicken to prevent falling off. Preheat air fryer for best results. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Leftovers reheat well in air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and olive oil with coconut oil. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or almond flour.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/crispy-garlic-parmesan-air-fryer-chicken-thighs-easy-5-step-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/