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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs: Easy Oven-Baked Dinner

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs - featured image

Juicy, oven-baked chicken thighs coated in a crispy mixture of parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic. This easy weeknight dinner delivers a crunchy crust and tender meat without the mess of frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it fully preheat for about 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare a breading station with two shallow dishes: whisk buttermilk and egg whites in one, and combine panko, parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the other.
  3. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres.
  4. Dip each thigh into the buttermilk mixture, let excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides.
  5. Arrange coated thighs on a parchment-lined baking sheet (preferably on a wire rack), leaving space between pieces.
  6. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and crust is golden brown.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispiness. Do not crowd the pan to avoid steaming. For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper. For gluten-free, swap panko for GF breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

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