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Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
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Crispy, juicy air fryer chicken thighs with a garlic Parmesan crust. Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients and no deep frying needed.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ¾ teaspoon fine table salt)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works too)
  • 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (from a block, not pre-shredded)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly dry with paper towels. Remove all moisture from the skin.
  2. Gently loosen the skin from the meat of each thigh to create a pocket without tearing. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, garlic powder, and black pepper directly onto the meat underneath.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub into the skin on both sides. In a small bowl, mix remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over all sides of the chicken.
  4. In the same bowl, combine minced fresh garlic, grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix with a fork and set aside.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each piece. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Cook for 12 minutes without opening the basket.
  8. After 12 minutes, flip the chicken using tongs. Spoon the garlic Parmesan mixture over the skin side of each thigh, pressing gently to adhere.
  9. Cook for another 8-10 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 175-185°F (79-85°C) and skin is deep golden brown. If Parmesan browns too fast, reduce temperature to 360°F for the last few minutes.
  10. Let chicken rest in the basket for 2-3 minutes before serving. Transfer to a plate and garnish with fresh parsley or basil and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the skin—moisture prevents crispiness. Seasoning under the skin adds flavor throughout. If air fryer runs hot, reduce to 370°F. For extra crispiness, toss seasoned chicken with 1 tablespoon cornstarch before cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

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Find it online: https://cookluma.com/crispy-air-fryer-garlic-parmesan-chicken-thighs-best-easy-recipe/