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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 impossibly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a savory garlic parmesan crust. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are the perfect weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (pre-grated, like the kind in the green can)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 3/4 teaspoon table salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and smoky sweetness)
  • Olive oil spray (for misting)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes to air-dry.
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir until combined.
  3. Sprinkle the dry rub generously over both sides of each thigh. Gently press the coating into the skin so it sticks.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
  5. Place the thighs skin-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
  6. Cook for 12 minutes without opening the basket.
  7. Carefully flip each thigh using tongs. Spray the newly exposed side lightly with oil. Cook for another 10 to 12 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to 170°F.
  8. Let the chicken rest on a clean plate or cutting board for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, dry the chicken thoroughly and do not overcrowd the basket. Pre-grated Parmesan works better than fresh for a crispy crust. If using a smaller air fryer, cook in batches. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes.

Nutrition

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