Name: Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 bone-in (skin-on chicken thighs); salt (to taste); freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 3 to 4 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 to 2 garlic cloves (minced); optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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Nothing beats the comforting aroma of golden chicken thighs sizzling with garlic and Parmesan in the oven. This dish delivers juicy, tender meat beneath a crispy, flavorful crust that’s perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and easy meal prep.

With simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, these Parmesan Garlic Chicken Thighs come together quickly, offering impressive results that satisfy every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy chicken thighs with crispy, golden Parmesan crust for irresistible texture.
Simple seasoning enhances natural flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Perfectly balanced garlic and herbs complement the savory cheese crust.
Versatile meal option suitable for busy weeknights or prepping ahead.

Ingredients

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Eight pieces provide juicy meat with flavorful skin that crisps beautifully during cooking.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural chicken flavors and balancing richness.
Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and warm garlic notes throughout the chicken.
Dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs including oregano and basil to infuse Italian-inspired aroma.
Olive oil or melted butter: Three to four tablespoons help sear and crisp the chicken skin to perfection.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Half a cup creates a golden, savory crust packed with cheesy umami.
Minced garlic cloves: One to two fresh cloves introduce bright, pungent garlic bursts atop the crust.
Chopped fresh parsley or basil: Optional garnish adding fresh, herbal brightness and a pop of color.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. Season generously on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. This step builds foundational flavor and helps dry the skin for better browning.
Heat the Pan: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Meanwhile, heat olive oil or melted butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. This preheating ensures a hot surface to sear the chicken quickly and lock in juices.
Sear the Thighs: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for 5 to 7 minutes without moving them to develop a golden, crispy crust. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side to seal in flavor and texture.
Add Parmesan and Garlic: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the seared chicken thighs. Scatter minced garlic cloves around and on top to infuse a mellow roasted garlic aroma during baking.
Bake Until Cooked Through: Transfer the skillet straight to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the cheese crust turns golden brown. This step finishes the cooking and crisps the crust perfectly.
Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for enhanced freshness and vibrant presentation before serving warm.

You Must Know

For even crispier skin, switch the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes at the end; watch carefully to avoid burning.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking for an extra bright or spicy kick.
Combine Parmesan with pecorino cheese for a deeper, nuttier flavor profile.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain crispiness and juiciness without drying out the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these savory chicken thighs alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh crisp salad for a balanced meal. They also pair wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs.

Professional Tips

Ensure chicken thighs are patted very dry before cooking to maximize skin crispiness.
Use an oven-safe skillet for seamless stovetop to oven transfer, reducing cleanup and preserving flavors.
Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and avoid overcooking, which can dry out the thighs.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?: Yes, boneless thighs will work, but reduce baking time slightly as they cook faster—start checking at 12 minutes.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?: Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese work well as substitutes, offering similar salty, nutty flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?: Definitely! These chicken thighs reheat well and maintain flavor and texture, making them great for cooked meal plans.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?: Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your Italian seasoning blend for any additives.
How do I store leftovers?: Cool chicken completely, then store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best results.
Can I add other herbs?: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano can be added alongside Italian seasoning to vary flavor complexity.