Description
This Garlic Parmesan Crispy Chicken Thighs recipe delivers perfectly baked, golden-brown chicken with a crispy skin infused with savory Parmesan and Italian herbs. The baking powder helps achieve maximum crispiness while the seasoning blend adds a robust flavor, making this dish an effortless weeknight dinner favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If your oven has convection or air fryer settings, use them for best results. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray it lightly with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Dry Chicken: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken thighs dry, removing any excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin during baking.
- Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an even seasoning blend.
- Season Chicken: Evenly rub the spice mixture all over each chicken thigh, ensuring every piece is well coated. Place the seasoned thighs spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes using the convection or air fryer setting if available. If baking boneless thighs instead, check for doneness after 25 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Check Doneness: The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. While still hot, baste the thighs with their pan juices to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Extra Crispy (Optional): For an extra crispy skin, place the chicken under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Wire Rack (Optional): For slightly crispier results, cook the chicken on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet, which allows heat circulation beneath the chicken. Line the pan with foil for easier cleanup.
Notes
- Ensure chicken thighs are thoroughly dried before seasoning to maximize skin crispiness.
- Baking powder helps to create a crispy texture; do not substitute with baking soda.
- Use a meat thermometer to reliably check doneness and avoid drying out the chicken.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds an irresistible extra crunch.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of chicken thighs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American