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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe Easy 5-Step Guide

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs air fryer recipe - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, golden chicken thighs with a garlicky, cheesy parmesan crust made quickly and easily in the air fryer. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray or light oil for coating

Instructions

  1. Pat 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. (5 minutes)
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well. (3 minutes)
  3. Lightly spray the chicken thighs with olive oil spray or brush with a little oil. Toss each thigh in the parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly on all sides. (7 minutes)
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the coated thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, then flip skin-side up and cook for another 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). (About 22 minutes total)
  6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is crucial for crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Use a light spray of olive oil to help the parmesan crust adhere and crisp. Check internal temperature to ensure doneness (165°F). For dairy-free option, substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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