Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
A quick and easy 20-minute recipe for crispy, garlicky, cheesy chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer, delivering a juicy interior and a crunchy parmesan crust.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture from the skin (about 2 minutes).
- Melt the butter in a small bowl until liquid but not hot.
- In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend.
- Brush each chicken thigh generously with melted butter on all sides, then press into the parmesan-panko mixture to coat skin and edges evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and run empty for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the coated chicken thighs skin-side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces.
- Cook for 10 minutes undisturbed.
- Flip the chicken thighs skin-side down using tongs and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C); if not reached, cook 2-3 minutes longer.
- Remove the chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
Notes
Pat chicken skin dry for best crispiness. Use melted butter to help coating stick and add richness. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even crispness. If parmesan browns too fast, reduce air fryer temperature to 375°F after 8 minutes and cook longer. Avoid overcrowding the basket to prevent steaming. Can substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for gluten-free option. Dairy-free butter and vegan parmesan alternatives work for dietary preferences. If no air fryer, bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes on a wire rack, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 550
- Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 28
Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, crispy chicken, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, parmesan crust, air fryer recipe