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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy Light Dinner

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs - featured image
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These baked chicken thighs feature a shatteringly crisp Parmesan-panko crust with garlic and herbs, delivering all the satisfaction of fried chicken without the grease. Perfect for a quick, healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 to 3 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Extra grated Parmesan for serving (optional)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy skin.
  3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, melted butter, dried oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix with a fork until crumbly and slightly wet.
  5. Press the coating mixture onto the top and sides of each chicken thigh, pressing firmly to adhere. Do not coat the bottom.
  6. Place the coated chicken thighs on the wire rack, skin side up, leaving space between each piece.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175-180°F (80-82°C) and the coating is deep golden brown.
  8. Let the chicken rest on the rack for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken very dry for crispiest skin. Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-grated) for best texture. For extra crispiness, let chicken sit uncovered in fridge for 15 minutes after drying. If coating isn’t golden enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs, baked chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, healthy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, garlic parmesan chicken

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/crispy-garlic-parmesan-chicken-thighs-easy-light-dinner/