Print

Best Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Kid-Approved

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

These crispy garlic Parmesan chicken thighs are a family favorite, featuring a golden, crunchy crust and juicy, tender meat. Ready in about 35 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, this easy oven-baked recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 lbs)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil, or line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Trim any excess skin or fat.
  3. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until evenly mixed.
  5. Pour olive oil into a separate small bowl.
  6. Working one thigh at a time, brush or rub a thin layer of olive oil all over the chicken. Then place the oiled chicken into the coating mixture, pressing firmly to coat completely. Place on the prepared wire rack or baking sheet. Repeat with remaining thighs, leaving space between each.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If not using a wire rack, flip halfway through at 15 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest on the wire rack for 5 minutes.
  9. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use a wire rack and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes. Save drippings to make a quick pan sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, baked chicken thighs, easy chicken dinner, kid-friendly chicken, weeknight dinner