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Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy Best Recipe

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These crispy air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs are the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a better cook than you actually are. They’re forgiving enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve to guests who think you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds total)
  • 4 to 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (preferably freshly grated)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet paprika recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or loose skin, but leave most of the skin intact. Let the chicken sit on a plate while you prepare the seasoning mixture, about 5 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until it forms a thick, fragrant paste.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in a medium bowl and pour the seasoning mixture over them. Use your hands to massage the mixture into every nook and cranny, especially under the skin if possible.
  4. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the seasoned chicken thighs. Toss gently to distribute, keeping most of the cheese on the skin side. Press it in lightly so it adheres.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  6. Arrange the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up. Make sure they’re not touching each other. Cook in batches if necessary.
  7. Cook at 400°F for 18 to 22 minutes, depending on the size of your thighs. Do not flip them halfway through.
  8. Check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. You’re looking for 165°F. If not there yet, cook in 2-minute increments until they hit the mark.
  9. Let the chicken rest in the air fryer basket (turned off) for 2 to 3 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Mixing minced garlic with melted butter and oil prevents it from burning. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Let chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even results. Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.

Nutrition

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

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