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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken thighs with a golden parmesan crust and herb roasting that infuses subtle earthy notes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds / 680g)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup (50g) finely grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • A handful fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (optional but recommended)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, fresh cracked, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, softened butter, lemon zest, and chopped parsley to form a spreadable paste.
  3. Dry the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  4. In a shallow bowl, mix grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped rosemary and thyme leaves, smoked paprika (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the skin side of each chicken thigh.
  6. Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the garlic buttered skin side of the thighs to create an even crust.
  7. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, place chicken thighs skin side down and sear without moving for about 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Flip the thighs carefully and sear the other side for 2 minutes.
  9. Add fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the pan around the chicken, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  10. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
  11. Rest the chicken on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Use skin-on thighs for best results. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crust texture. Butter amount is key for crust adhesion. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid over or undercooking. For dairy-free, substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast and butter with olive oil. Breadcrumbs can be replaced with gluten-free alternatives like crushed cornflakes or almond flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, herb roasted chicken, easy chicken recipe, parmesan crust chicken, weeknight dinner