Print

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs (Easy Air Fryer Recipe)

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs are ultra-crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, made easily in an air fryer. A quick and delicious weeknight dinner that rivals restaurant-quality crunch without the mess of shallow frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4–6 thighs)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil spray
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat if using boneless, skinless thighs. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add 1/2 cup all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon water until frothy. In the third bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 4-5 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
  3. Working one at a time, dredge a chicken thigh in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into the panko-Parmesan mixture, coating all sides. Place on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat with remaining thighs.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the breaded chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching (cook in batches if needed). Spray the tops lightly with oil.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes. Carefully flip each thigh using tongs, then spray the other side lightly with oil. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 170-175°F (77-80°C) and the coating is deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove from the air fryer and let rest on a wire rack or plate for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan from a block (not pre-shredded). Pat chicken dry thoroughly to help breading stick. Let breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before air frying to set the coating. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 170-175°F for juiciest results. If your air fryer runs hot, check at 20 minutes.

Nutrition

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

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