Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs are a culinary delight that brings together the richness of chicken thighs with the savory crunch of Parmesan cheese. This recipe has gained popularity for its simple preparation and the burst of flavor it offers in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these chicken thighs are sure to impress.
The origins of this dish can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where Parmesan cheese is a staple ingredient. The idea of crusting chicken with cheese and breadcrumbs provides a satisfying texture that complements the juiciness of the chicken. This method of cooking not only enhances the flavor but also adds a golden, crispy finish that is hard to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore the steps to create perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs, discuss the benefits of baking versus frying, and offer tips for achieving the best results. We’ll also delve into some intriguing variations and answer common questions, such as how Gordon Ramsay might prepare this dish.
Ingredients
For this delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 boneless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you prefer using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Breading Mixture:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This mixture will help the breading stick to the chicken and add extra moisture.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.
- Brush each chicken thigh with the mayonnaise mixture, ensuring an even coat on all sides.
- Dredge the coated chicken thighs in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere to the chicken.
Baking the Chicken
- Bake in the Oven:
- Place the coated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken to enhance browning and crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Using an Air Fryer
- Air Frying Option:
- Place the coated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an added zing.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Is it Better to Fry or Bake Chicken Thighs? Baking is a healthier option that results in less oil absorption, maintaining the juiciness of the chicken. Frying can offer an extra-crispy texture but involves more oil.
- How to Butterfly Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thigh skin side down on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice horizontally through the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open the thigh like a book to ensure even cooking.
Variations
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs with Mayo: For a tangier flavor, mix a tablespoon of lemon juice into the mayonnaise before coating the chicken.
- Herb Variations: Customize the flavor by adding different herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (1 chicken thigh):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 420mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and specific quantities used.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. This easy Parmesan crusted chicken thighs recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With the option to bake or air fry, you can enjoy a healthier yet equally delicious version of this classic dish.