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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs in Air Fryer

air fryer garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
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These air fryer chicken thighs feature a garlic Parmesan crust that stays crunchy even after sitting for a few minutes. No flipping required, no breading falling off—just golden, savory, garlicky chicken that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless)
  • 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Cooking spray (avocado oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and minced garlic until smooth.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the oil is evenly distributed.
  5. Brush or spread the mayonnaise-garlic mixture evenly over each chicken thigh.
  6. Press each chicken thigh into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating all sides. Shake off excess.
  7. Place the coated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
  8. Spray the tops of the chicken thighs lightly with cooking spray.
  9. Air fry at 400°F for 18-22 minutes for bone-in thighs, or 12-15 minutes for boneless. Do not open the basket during cooking.
  10. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
  11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, grate your own Parmesan cheese. Pat chicken thoroughly dry to ensure crispy coating. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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

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