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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, cheesy herb-crusted chicken thighs with juicy, tender meat underneath. Quick and easy, it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food ideal for weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs or 700 grams)
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste (about ½ tsp for crust, plus more for seasoning chicken)
  • Black pepper, to taste (about ¼ tsp for crust, plus more for seasoning chicken)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 grams)
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary, parsley, garlic powder, lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Brush chicken skin lightly with melted butter. Press the herb-parmesan mixture firmly onto the skin side of each chicken thigh, covering evenly.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add chicken thighs crust-side down and press gently to ensure crust sticks. Cook without moving for 6-7 minutes until golden and crispy, adjusting heat as needed.
  5. Flip chicken thighs carefully using tongs. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before applying crust to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd pan. Press crust firmly during sear to help it adhere. If crust browns too fast, reduce heat or finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5 minutes. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour. For dairy-free, use nutritional yeast and coconut oil instead of Parmesan and butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, herb crust chicken, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal