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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy 30-Minute Recipe

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

Crispy, juicy chicken thighs with a golden garlic Parmesan crust, ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this simple recipe uses pantry staples to deliver big flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken (5 minutes): Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat the pan (2 minutes): Place your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter. Swirl the pan until the butter melts and starts to foam.
  3. Sear the chicken (8-10 minutes): Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
  4. Make the garlic butter (2 minutes): Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Cook for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  5. Add the Parmesan (1 minute): Sprinkle the grated Parmesan directly into the garlic butter. Stir quickly to combine. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until it forms a lacy, golden crust around the edges of the pan.
  6. Return the chicken (5-7 minutes): Place the chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up. Spoon some of the garlic Parmesan mixture over the tops. Transfer to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking, or cover and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest and garnish (3 minutes): Remove from heat. Let the chicken rest in the pan for 3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken very dry for crispy skin. Don’t move chicken too early; let it sear undisturbed. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, 30-minute dinner, weeknight dinner, potluck recipe, garlic chicken, parmesan chicken