Description

A quick, reliable weeknight dinner featuring boneless, skin-on chicken thighs coated in a crispy garlic and parmesan crust. Baked on a wire rack for maximum crunch without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup grated parmesan cheese (from a block)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
Pat chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In another shallow bowl, combine grated parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
Drizzle olive oil over chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
Dredge each thigh in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then press firmly into the parmesan mixture to coat all sides.
Place coated thighs skin-side up on the wire rack.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and crust is golden brown.
Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to prevent burning.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Notes

Do not skip the wire rack; it allows air circulation for crispy skin. Grate your own parmesan as pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper crisping. Ensure chicken is patted dry before coating. Do not overcrowd the pan. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after baking to retain juices.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh per
Calories: 450
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 600
Fat: 30
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 1
Protein: 35

Keywords: chicken thighs, garlic parmesan, crispy chicken, baked chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meals, keto friendly, gluten free option