Description
A simple, low-effort weeknight dinner featuring crispy, golden chicken thighs coated in a savory garlic and parmesan crust. This recipe requires only five ingredients and minimal active prep time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly with oil. If using a wire rack, place it on the sheet.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine grated parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place chicken thighs in a medium bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle the parmesan mixture over the chicken and press firmly to ensure the coating adheres.
- Place chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with dried parsley if using and serve immediately.
Notes
Do not skip drying the chicken with paper towels, as moisture prevents crisping. Use freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-grated, which contains anti-caking agents. If using bone-in thighs, increase baking time to 35-40 minutes. Do not crowd the pan to ensure proper airflow and crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh per
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Protein: 32
Keywords: chicken thighs, baked chicken, garlic parmesan, easy dinner, weeknight meals, keto friendly, low carb, crispy chicken