When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that deliver on flavor and satisfaction, Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs take the cake! With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, these chicken thighs are perfect for a cozy family meal or a casual gathering with friends. The air fryer makes them wonderfully crispy without the need for a deep fryer, and the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
There’s something about crispy chicken that speaks to the heart of any gathering. The crunchy topping paired with the tender meat creates the perfect contrast, making these Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re serving them with a side salad or over pasta, they are guaranteed to please. Plus, the air fryer makes them quick and easy, allowing you to whip up a delightful dinner in no time.
What to Buy
Before you get started, here’s a list of what you’ll need to gather for these flavorful chicken thighs:
- 3-4 bone-in chicken thighs (about 2-2.5 lbs.), skin removed if desired
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Equipment Breakdown
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Air Fryer: The star of the show, ensuring crispy chicken without all the excess oil.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients efficiently.
- Baking Sheet: To catch any drips while cooking, if needed.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature.
Make Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: A Simple Method
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to bring your Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs to life.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by removing the skin from your chicken thighs if you prefer skinless. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy in the air fryer.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, cracked pepper, and Italian seasoning. This flavorful mixture will help the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thighs
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands to coat each thigh thoroughly, ensuring every crevice is filled with flavor.
Step 4: Mix the Bread Crumb Topping
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or panko with the grated Parmesan. This crispy topping will give your chicken that irresistible crunch. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Coat with the Breadcrumb Mixture
Take each marinated chicken thigh and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a generous coating on all sides. You can use your hands to really pack it on for extra crunch.
Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once hot, arrange the coated chicken thighs in the basket, leaving space between them for air circulation. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, and watch as your family raves about these Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs!
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
This recipe is versatile, making it perfect for any season. Here are some ideas for variations based on the weather:
- Warm Weather: Serve the chicken with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad, or toss it into a light pasta dish with lemon and herbs.
- Cool Weather: Pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a comforting meal.
Slip-Ups to Skip
While making Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs is straightforward, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will lead to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken.
- Be sure to pat the chicken dry. Moisture on the surface can prevent the breadcrumb coating from adhering properly.
- Avoid skipping the resting time after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish!), here are some tips to keep them fresh:
- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, pop the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to maintain the crispiness.
- For meal prep, consider making a double batch and freezing some for later use. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!
Handy Q&A
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will work just as well. Just reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness.
What can I serve with these chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or creamy pasta.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko for a delicious gluten-free version of Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Cook This Next
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Next Steps
Now that you have all the details to create your own Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! You’ll be amazed at how easy and delightful this dish can be. Don’t forget to share your delicious results on social media, and tag your friends to inspire them to try it out too. Happy cooking!
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mixing Bowls
- Baking Sheet
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
- 3-4 bone-in chicken thighs about 2-2.5 lbs., skin removed if desired
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Start by removing the skin from your chicken thighs if you prefer skinless. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy in the air fryer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, cracked pepper, and Italian seasoning. This flavorful mixture will help the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands to coat each thigh thoroughly, ensuring every crevice is filled with flavor.
- In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs or panko with the grated Parmesan. Stir well to combine.
- Take each marinated chicken thigh and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a generous coating on all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated chicken thighs in the basket, leaving space between them for air circulation. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy chicken.
- Pat the chicken dry before coating to help the breadcrumb mixture stick better.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
