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Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs with crispy skin and fresh parsley on a wooden board

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Emily Wilson
These Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a bold garlic parmesan crust. Ready in about 25 minutes, this easy chicken thigh recipe is naturally gluten free, high in protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 chicken thighs
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 4 bone in, skin on chicken thighs about 5 to 6 ounces each

Parmesan Seasoning

  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional for brightness

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels, especially the skin. Removing surface moisture helps create a crispy parmesan crust.
  • In a shallow bowl, mix together parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
  • Rub olive oil over all sides of the chicken thighs. Press the skin side firmly into the parmesan mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
  • Place the chicken thighs skin side up in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping gently halfway through cooking.
  • Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit using an instant read thermometer. For extra tenderness, cook to 170 degrees if desired.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper airflow and crispiness. Boneless chicken thighs can be used but may cook faster. This recipe is naturally gluten free since it does not use flour or breadcrumbs. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes to restore crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Potassium: 320 mg
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Vitamin A: 350 IU
  • Vitamin C: 2 mg
  • Calcium: 180 mg
  • Iron: 1.5 mg