Print

Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs – Easy Dinner

air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

Golden, shatteringly crispy chicken thighs with a salty, nutty, garlicky crust, made in the air fryer in under 30 minutes. Perfect for impressing guests or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and cayenne. In another shallow bowl, place grated Parmesan.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned chicken and toss to coat. Working one piece at a time, dredge in flour mixture, shaking off excess, then press into Parmesan to coat. Place on a plate without stacking.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
  5. Place coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving about 1/2 inch space between pieces. Cook in batches if needed.
  6. Air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes. Flip carefully with tongs and cook for another 8-10 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and crust is deep golden brown.
  7. While chicken cooks, melt butter in a small skillet over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  8. As soon as chicken is done, brush each thigh with garlic butter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Let rest 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use almond flour or 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with 1/2 cup nutritional yeast mixed with 1/4 cup almond flour and use vegan butter. Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure crispiness. If Parmesan browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil. Prep ahead: coat chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy dinner, party appetizer

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/crispy-air-fryer-garlic-parmesan-chicken-thighs-easy-dinner/