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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Recipe Easy Perfect Dinner

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This recipe delivers crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs with a savory garlic and parmesan crust using an air fryer. It’s quick, fuss-free, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (organic or free-range recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (freshly ground preferred)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme) – optional
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture (about 3 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, dried Italian herbs (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix evenly.
  3. Toss the chicken thighs in the seasoning mixture, ensuring every inch of skin and sides is coated (2-3 minutes).
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the chicken thighs skin side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding (leave space for air circulation).
  6. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. At the 6-minute mark, flip each thigh skin side down carefully using tongs.
  7. Flip the thighs back skin side up and cook for an additional 5 minutes to finish crisping the skin evenly.
  8. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If not, cook in 2-3 minute increments until done.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and the crust to set.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispy skin. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Preheat the air fryer to jumpstart crisping. Flip carefully to avoid tearing the skin. Adjust cooking time based on thigh size. For extra garlic flavor, brush melted butter mixed with minced garlic after cooking and broil briefly, watching closely to avoid burning. Leftovers reheat best in air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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

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