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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: 3-Ingredient Dinner

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs - featured image

Juicy air fryer chicken thighs coated in a crispy garlic and parmesan crust. This simple weeknight dinner comes together in under 20 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality crunch without the grease.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 egg white
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (divided)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on cheese saltiness)
  • Cooking spray (neutral oil like avocado or canola)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken thighs very dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white, mayonnaise, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the grated parmesan cheese, remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt if using.
  4. Dip each chicken thigh into the egg white mixture, letting excess drip off.
  5. Press the chicken firmly into the parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place on a clean plate.
  6. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
  7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
  8. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
  9. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with oil.
  10. Cook at 380°F for 8 minutes.
  11. Flip the chicken carefully, spray the other side with oil, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and cheese is golden brown.
  12. Let chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure chicken is completely dry before coating to prevent soggy crust. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. If cheese burns before chicken is cooked, lower temperature by 10°F for the second half. Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, parmesan chicken, garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, keto dinner, gluten-free dinner, quick weeknight meals, healthy air fryer recipes