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Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

crispy air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy, juicy air fryer chicken thighs with a golden garlic Parmesan crust. Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients, this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or late-night cravings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and olive oil until smooth.
  4. Spread a thin, even layer of the mayonnaise mixture all over each chicken thigh. Press each thigh into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating all surfaces. Shake off excess.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
  6. Place coated chicken thighs in the basket in a single layer, skin-side down, without touching. Air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes.
  7. Flip the chicken using tongs. Air fry for another 8-12 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 175-185°F in the thickest part.
  8. Remove chicken and let rest on a wire rack or cutting board for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with dried parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken very dry for crispiest skin. Don’t skip the mayonnaise—it helps the coating stick and browns beautifully. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. For best texture, cook thighs to 175-185°F. If coating browns too quickly, reduce temperature to 360°F and add 3-5 minutes.

Nutrition

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