Description
These crispy garlic parmesan air fryer chicken thighs are an easy, budget-friendly weeknight dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes. The chicken is coated in a savory mixture of mayo, parmesan, and breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy crust while staying juicy inside.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Panko or dry breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for the basket
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and trim any large pieces of excess fat.
- In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, minced fresh garlic, and dried Italian seasoning until smooth.
- In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the mayo mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring it gets into crevices.
- Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides. Shake off excess crumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place chicken thighs in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying tops with oil at the 6-minute mark.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden brown.
- Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness. For best results, press the coating firmly onto the chicken. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to 10-12 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Do not microwave as it makes the coating soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 thighs per serving
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 30
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 35
Keywords: air fryer chicken, chicken thighs, easy weeknight dinner, crispy chicken, parmesan chicken, garlic chicken, family dinner, budget-friendly meals