Print

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy Weeknight Dinner

crispy baked parmesan chicken thighs - featured image
Print Recipe

Juicy, crispy baked chicken thighs with a golden Parmesan-panko crust that comes together in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent without the fuss of deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs or 680g total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (45g)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (1g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (1g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (0.5g)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Extra grated Parmesan (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. In a separate shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
  5. Working one thigh at a time, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat all sides. Press firmly so the coating adheres. Place coated thighs on the wire rack, skin side up.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C); for juiciest results, aim for 175°F (80°C). If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra browning.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Serve immediately, sprinkled with fresh parsley and with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Pat chicken very dry for maximum crispiness. Use a wire rack for even air circulation. Freshly grate Parmesan for best melting and browning. For boneless thighs, reduce baking time by about 10 minutes. If coating browns too quickly, tent with foil for last 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, Parmesan chicken, easy weeknight dinner, baked chicken recipe, chicken thighs

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/crispy-baked-parmesan-chicken-thighs-easy-weeknight-dinner/