Print

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe Easy 20-Minute Dinner

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs air fryer - featured image

A quick and easy air fryer recipe for crispy garlic Parmesan chicken thighs with a flavorful, crunchy crust. Perfect for busy weeknights and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil or cooking spray, for brushing
  • Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
  3. Lightly brush each chicken thigh with olive oil or spray with cooking spray on both sides.
  4. Press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating all sides evenly.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Place the coated chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
  7. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5-10 minutes until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  8. Remove chicken and let rest on a wire rack or plate for 2 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry thoroughly for best crispiness. Press Parmesan coating firmly onto chicken to help it stick. Preheat air fryer for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If coating browns too fast, lower temperature to 375°F and add cooking time. Refrigerate coated chicken up to 24 hours before cooking for convenience.

Nutrition

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