Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Nothing beats the joy of cooking up a delicious meal on a busy weeknight, and that’s exactly why I adore this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe. You see, there are days when I crave something hearty yet simple, and this dish fits the bill perfectly! Just last week, I was rummaging through my pantry, searching for inspiration. As I pulled out some fresh herbs and a block of Parmesan, the idea for this flavorful chicken came rushing back to me. It’s quick, it’s easy, and most importantly, it’s utterly satisfying.

Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. The first time I made this dish, my family couldn’t get enough! The aroma wafting through the kitchen had everyone’s mouths watering in anticipation, and when we gathered around the table to dig in, the clean plates said it all. Trust me, you’ll want to keep coming back for seconds!

Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is bound to impress. Everyone loves a meal that’s not only packed with flavor but also easy to whip up. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can spend more time enjoying good food and good company. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to make it come to life in your own kitchen!

Main Ingredients for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Using quality ingredients is key to elevating this dish. Each component plays a significant role in creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the chicken thighs, which are flavorful and juicy, especially when cooked in an air fryer. Paired with the robust flavor of garlic and the richness of Parmesan cheese, you’ll create a dish that’s worth savoring.

• 3 bone in chicken thighs
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 3 dashes black pepper
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• lemon wedges, for serving

Preparation Steps for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Let’s get started on preparing the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken. The process is straightforward, making this dish perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Take your time with this step to ensure every piece is infused with flavor.
2. Transfer the chicken to the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece; this helps achieve that desirable crispiness. I love how the air fryer allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, creating that golden-brown skin.
3. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for about twelve minutes. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen, and you might find it hard to resist peeking!
4. After the twelve minutes, carefully flip the chicken to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides. Air fry for another six minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on it; the skin should be golden and crispy, while the inside stays juicy.
5. Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. This helps the juices redistribute.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The brightness of the lemon complements the richness of the cheese beautifully!

Expert Tips about Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here are some expert tips to help you nail the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken every time.

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping to avoid ice crystals forming.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over pasta for a delightful meal.
• Marinade: For an extra flavor kick, let the chicken marinate in the seasoning mix for an hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.
• Double the recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd, feel free to double the recipe. Just cook in batches to ensure even cooking.

Perfect Matches for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

When it comes to serving the Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to create the perfect meal:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp Caesar or garden salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken wonderfully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, for a balanced plate.
• Rice or Quinoa: A fluffy serving of rice or quinoa makes a great base to soak up any juices from the chicken.
• Pasta Dishes: Toss the chicken with your favorite pasta and a light sauce for a hearty meal.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping for a busy week.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously simple dish that brings together the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with the convenience of air frying. It’s a meal that not only satisfies cravings but also makes weeknight dinners a breeze. I encourage you to try making this recipe at home; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the crispy goodness and the smiles it brings to your table!

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, this Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a crispy and flavorful delight! With tender chicken thighs coated in savory garlic and rich Parmesan cheese, it makes for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer, it’s a dish you’ll want to make tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 18 minutes mins

Total Time 28 minutes mins

Servings: 3 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 thighs bone in chicken thighs
• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 3 dashes black pepper
• 3 dashes cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 serving lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Air Fryer
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Transfer the chicken to the air fryer basket, skin side up. Air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 12 minutes.
3. Flip the chicken and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for another 6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• Tip 1: I go for chicken thighs that are about the same size— that way, they cook nice and even, and everything’s ready at the same time.
• Tip 2: Make sure to pat the chicken dry— it really makes a difference! If the skin’s damp, it won’t crisp up as nicely.
• Tip 3: I never skip the lemon juice— it keeps the chicken nice and juicy and cuts through all that cheesy, garlicky richness.
• Tip 4: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Make sure you give the chicken thighs a bit of space!
• Tip 5: If they're packed in too tight, they’ll steam instead of getting crispy. You can always cook in batches if you need to.

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Meet Molly Brooks

I love mixing nostalgic flavors with fun, fresh twists. My goal is to make cooking the best part of your day. I loved making this recipe, and I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home!