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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers irresistibly crispy garlic parmesan crusted chicken thighs with juicy, tender meat inside. Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, about 25 g)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Season the chicken evenly with salt and pepper on both sides. Let rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs (if using), dried Italian herbs, lemon zest, softened butter, and olive oil. Mix until crumbly paste forms.
  5. Press the parmesan garlic mixture gently onto the skin side of each chicken thigh.
  6. Heat a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place chicken thighs skin-side down carefully.
  7. Cook for 5-7 minutes without moving to brown and crisp the skin and crust. Adjust heat if browning too fast.
  8. Flip the chicken carefully using tongs, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Press the parmesan mixture firmly onto the skin to ensure it sticks. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If the crust browns too quickly, tent with foil. Rest chicken after cooking for juicy meat. For gluten-free, omit panko or substitute with almond flour. For dairy-free, omit butter and parmesan or use plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken, weeknight dinner, comfort food, gluten-free chicken, low carb chicken