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Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken Thighs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-50 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken Thighs recipe delivers perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken with a golden crust infused with Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection at high heat, these juicy bone-in, skin-on thighs are an easy weeknight favorite with a crispy finish optionally enhanced by broiling or cooking on a wire rack.


Ingredients

Chicken and Spice Mix

  • 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), using the convection or air fryer setting if available. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Dry Chicken: Thoroughly pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to remove all excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier skin.
  3. Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend.
  4. Season Chicken: Evenly rub the spice mixture over each chicken thigh, ensuring full coverage. Arrange the thighs on the prepared baking sheet with space between each piece for even cooking.
  5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes using the convection or air fryer setting if available. If your oven lacks these settings, baking may require slightly more time. For boneless chicken thighs, begin checking for doneness after 25 minutes.
  6. Check Doneness: Confirm the chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. Baste the chicken with the pan juices to enhance flavor and moisture.
  7. Extra Crispy (Optional): For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Wire Rack (Optional): For an even crispier texture, cook the chicken on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet. Line the sheet with foil for easier cleanup.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin.
  • Baking powder helps achieve a crisp crust by drawing moisture out.
  • If you don’t have convection or air fryer oven, just bake longer but monitor closely.
  • Using a wire rack promotes air circulation for crispier results.
  • Basting during cooking adds flavor and moisture.
  • Broiling is optional and should be watched carefully to avoid burning the Parmesan.