06/18/2026
Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Okay, I need to tell you about last Tuesday. I threw these together after a long day, not expecting much — and my husband asked me to make them again before the plates were even cleared. That's saying something.
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for the air fryer. The skin gets that deep golden crunch you usually only get from pan-frying, but without the splattered stovetop cleanup. The garlic parmesan crust? It practically caramelizes onto the skin. Honestly, ridiculous how good these turn out.
What You'll Need (serves 4):
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (fresh — don't use the jar stuff here)
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Them:
1. Pat your chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels — this is non-negotiable for crispy skin.
2. Mix the olive oil, garlic, parmesan, and all the seasonings into a paste.
3. Rub it generously all over the chicken, getting under the skin if you can.
4. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 22–24 minutes, flipping once halfway. Check that your internal temp hits 165°F.
What to Serve With These:
- Roasted garlic mashed potatoes — they soak up the juices beautifully
- A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing to cut through the richness
- Crusty bread for dragging through the pan drippings (you'll thank me)
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli if you want something lighter