Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for a quick and delicious meal. Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy chicken without the added fat from frying. The garlic and Parmesan add a wonderful flavor that gets deep into the meat, making it juicy and tasty. Plus, this recipe is simple and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions:

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. This step takes about 5 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper until a paste-like texture forms. This should take around 3 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and rub the garlic Parmesan mixture all over each thigh, including under the skin where possible. This will take about 5 minutes.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Place the coated thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook skin-side up for another 8-10 minutes until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This cooking time will be around 20 minutes.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

How to Serve Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

These chicken thighs are delicious on their own or served with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick.

How to Store Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Tips to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

• Ensure the chicken thighs are thoroughly dried to help the skin get extra crispy.
• Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Variation

If you prefer, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless cuts will cook faster.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken breast?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Just reduce the cooking time since chicken breasts cook faster.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken thighs?
Yes, you can freeze them. Make sure they cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

What can I serve with these chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your meal!