I just made these garlic parmesan air-fryer chicken thighs and I’m completely obsessed – the skin is so incredibly crispy while the meat is juicy and packed with flavor!
I was getting tired of the same old baked chicken routine and decided to try something new with my air fryer, and wow, this might be the best chicken I’ve ever made at home.
The garlic parmesan coating creates this amazing golden crust that’s so flavorful and crunchy, and the best part is it only took like 25 minutes from start to finish!
I made six thighs thinking they’d last me a few meals, but I’ve already devoured two of them standing right at the counter because they’re just that good.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These garlic parmesan air-fryer chicken thighs deliver restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time with incredibly crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat that’ll make you forget about takeout!
The air fryer works magic by creating that perfect crispy exterior without any oil or messy cleanup, making it way healthier and easier than traditional frying methods.
You’ll love how the garlic parmesan coating adds amazing flavor without being overwhelming, and chicken thighs are naturally more forgiving than breasts, so they stay moist and delicious every single time.
Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep since they reheat beautifully and taste great hot or at room temperature, making them ideal for busy weeknights or grab-and-go lunches throughout the week!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Optional add-ons:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning for extra flavor
- ½ tsp chili flakes for a little heat
- Lemon wedges for serving
Pro Tips
- Pat the chicken dry. Dry skin means crispier results in the air fryer.
- Don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed—air circulation is key for crispiness.
- Flip halfway through. This ensures even browning on both sides.
- Use fresh Parmesan. It melts and crisps better than the pre-grated kind.
- Rest before serving. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Substitutions and Variations
- Chicken: You can swap thighs for drumsticks or boneless chicken thighs, just adjust the cooking time.
- Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper bite.
- Herbs: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor.
- Low-carb twist: Skip the paprika and serve with zucchini noodles.
- Kid-friendly: Leave out the paprika and chili flakes for a milder flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
- You can prep the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning them and storing covered in the fridge.
- If you want to save time, mix the Parmesan spice blend ahead and keep it in a jar—it’s also amazing on veggies or potatoes.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes at 375°F to bring back the crispiness.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air-Fryer Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prep the chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat.
Step 2: Make the seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the chicken
Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, rubbing it in to stick.
Step 4: Air fry
Place the thighs skin-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner.
- Pair with a fresh Caesar salad for a lighter option.
- Slice and add to wraps, grain bowls, or pasta dishes.
- Add lemon wedges on the side for brightness.
Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked thighs for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F until warmed through.
- Reheat: Use the air fryer or oven to keep the skin crispy—avoid microwaving if possible.
Nutrition & Benefits
Chicken thighs are rich in protein and healthy fats, making them both filling and satisfying.
Cooking them in the air fryer uses less oil while still giving you that crispy texture.
Parmesan adds calcium and flavor, while garlic brings antioxidants and heart-healthy compounds. It’s a balanced meal that tastes indulgent without being heavy.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs?
Yes, just reduce the cook time to 14–16 minutes total.
2. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Some models recommend it—check yours. A quick 3–4 minutes at 375°F helps with crispiness.
3. Can I make this with chicken breasts?
Yes, but they’ll cook faster—start checking at 14 minutes.
4. How do I keep the Parmesan from burning?
Make sure it’s mixed well with the spices and not piled too thick on top.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Just cook in batches so the chicken has room to crisp.
Crispy, Garlicky, and Totally Irresistible
These garlic Parmesan air-fryer chicken thighs are one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.
They’re easy enough for weeknights, delicious enough for guests, and so satisfying that you’ll never miss frying them in oil. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they really are a dinner win every single time.