Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs completely dry on all sides. This is the most important step for achieving maximum crispiness. Moisture is the enemy of a good crunch.
Place the dried chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until each piece is lightly and evenly coated. This helps the seasoning stick and aids in the browning process.
In a small bowl, whisk together the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Sprinkle the mixture over the chicken, pressing it gently onto the skin side to ensure it adheres well.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side up. Make sure they are not touching or overlapping to allow for proper airflow.
Cook the chicken at 400°F for 20 to 22 minutes. There is no need to flip them if you want the skin to stay perfectly intact and crispy. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.