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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (Garlic Parmesan)

crispy air fryer chicken thighs - featured image

These crispy air fryer chicken thighs with garlic Parmesan are quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious. The skin gets impossibly crispy in the air fryer, while the garlic Parmesan coating creates a savory, nutty crust that makes this a perfect weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder. Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil and rub it all over. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each thigh.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd.
  5. Air fry at 380°F for 12 minutes. Flip the thighs and cook for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 175°F.
  6. While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Add minced garlic and microwave for 15-20 seconds until fragrant. Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
  7. Once the chicken is done, brush the garlic Parmesan mixture generously over each thigh. Sprinkle with the additional ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, after brushing with garlic butter, pop the thighs back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 400°F. Watch closely so the garlic doesn’t burn. Do not add Parmesan coating before cooking as it will burn.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, keto chicken, gluten-free chicken