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Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Thighs

crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers crispy, juicy, and tender chicken thighs with a golden Parmesan crust, made easy and quick in the air fryer. Perfect for a fuss-free, flavorful meal that pleases picky eaters and food lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or thyme (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture from the skin and meat (about 2 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well (3 minutes).
  3. Brush or spray the chicken thighs lightly with olive oil to help the coating stick and promote browning (1 minute).
  4. Press each chicken thigh skin-side down into the Parmesan-panko mixture, then turn and repeat on the skin side, gently pressing to adhere. Ensure even coating without thick globs (5 minutes).
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  6. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket skin-side up, leaving space between pieces for air circulation (1 minute).
  7. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway at 10 minutes for even crispness. The skin should be deep golden brown and crispy, and internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Transfer the chicken to a wire rack or plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is essential for crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For extra crispiness, add 2-3 minutes more cooking time if needed. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken thighs, crispy chicken, Parmesan chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken thighs, quick dinner, gluten-free chicken option

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/crispy-air-fryer-parmesan-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-juicy-tender-chicken/