Description
These air fryer chicken thighs are coated in a crunchy garlic and parmesan crust, offering a crispy, juicy, and flavorful weeknight dinner that is easier and healthier than takeout.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- ½ cup (40g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture and trim any excess fat.
- In a small bowl, mix the grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil and mayonnaise until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the parmesan-panko mixture over the chicken and press firmly to ensure the coating adheres.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place chicken thighs in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the chicken and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook for another 6-9 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. Ensure chicken is patted dry before coating to prevent steaming. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to prevent it from falling off during cooking.
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh per
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 32
Keywords: air fryer chicken, crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, easy weeknight dinner, healthy chicken recipe, air fryer recipes