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Cozy Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

These air fryer chicken thighs are perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated with a savory garlic Parmesan crust. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s full of flavor.

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
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Let them sit on a plate while you mix the seasoning.
  2. Make the dry rub: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
  3. Season the chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs and coat evenly. Sprinkle the dry rub over both sides, patting gently to adhere.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for about 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange the chicken: Place the seasoned thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, leaving space between each piece.
  6. First cook: Cook at 380°F for 12 minutes. Do not open the basket during this time.
  7. While the chicken cooks, mix grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and melted butter in a small bowl to form a paste.
  8. Flip and add Parmesan mixture: After 12 minutes, flip the chicken so skin side is up. Spoon the Parmesan mixture over the top of each thigh.
  9. Final cook: Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes at 380°F, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the Parmesan crust is golden brown.
  10. Rest and garnish: Remove from air fryer and let rest for 3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Pat the chicken very dry for maximum crispiness. Let chicken come to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even results. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. If Parmesan browns too quickly, reduce temperature to 360°F for the final cook.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, keto chicken