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Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Thighs

This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Thighs recipe is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with cheesy flavor. It is the perfect weeknight dinner for busy families. You only need a few simple ingredients, and the air fryer does all the hard work. Whether you use bone in or boneless chicken thighs, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dinners. It is easy, quick, and full of comfort food vibes without all the extra oil.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 6 chicken thighs bone in or boneless
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Italian or plain
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps them get that crispy golden outside when cooking.

Step 2: Make the Coating

  • In a medium bowl, mix together parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  • Brush each chicken thigh with olive oil or melted butter. Press both sides into the parmesan mixture until evenly coated.

Step 4: Air Fry

  • Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  • Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after air frying. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Tips

  • Always pat the chicken dry before coating it for the crispiest results.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Check the chicken halfway through and flip it for even cooking.
  • For extra crunch, mix some panko breadcrumbs with the parmesan coating.

Variations

  • Spicy Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating mix.
  • Herb Version: Add dried oregano or Italian seasoning for a more herby flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Style: Melt some butter with minced garlic and drizzle it over the cooked chicken before serving.
  • Low Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Cheesy Twist: Mix mozzarella or cheddar with the parmesan for a cheesier bite.