Savory and rich with crisped edges, these chicken thighs are coated in buttery garlic and salty parmesan for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Air fryer garlic parmesan chicken is one of those easy dinners you’ll want to make again and again.
It comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients, and the air fryer gives it that perfect crispy outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
The buttery garlic and salty parmesan combo packs in so much flavor, it tastes like something way more complicated than it actually is.
It’s the kind of no-fuss meal that feels a little special but is simple enough for any busy weeknight.
If you are looking for more delicious chicken recipes, try this chicken pasta with bacon and peas or this slow cooker chicken tater tot casserole.
You will need the following ingredients listed below to make this air fryer recipe (the exact measurements, nutrition information and full recipe are all in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post).
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
- Chicken Thighs
- Olive Oil
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
Garlic Parmesan Finish
- Butter
- Garlic
- Parmesan Cheese
- Parsley
- Italian Seasoning
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and place in a bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
- Stir parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into the butter mixture.
- Transfer hot chicken to a bowl and spoon the garlic parmesan mixture over the top. Toss gently to coat and serve immediately.
- Top with additional parmesan cheese, if desired, and enjoy your garlic parmesan chicken on its own or with your favorite sides.
Sides to Pair with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for an easy, healthy pairing.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all that buttery sauce.
- A simple side salad or Caesar salad for a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
Tips on Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed through.
Substitutions
- Chicken breasts can be used; reduce cook time and cook to 165°F.
- Avocado oil can replace olive oil.
- Pecorino Romano can replace Parmesan for a sharper finish.
Save For Later By Pinning The Below Image
Garlic Parmesan Chicken in the Air Fryer
Author: Recipe Idea Shop
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 1 ½ tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
Garlic Parmesan Finish
- 4 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and place in a bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Add garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
- While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Stir parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into the butter mixture.
- Transfer hot chicken to a bowl and spoon the garlic parmesan mixture over the top. Toss gently to coat and serve immediately.
- Top with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition (may vary depending on ingredients and amounts used)
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed through.
