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Crispy Keto Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Crust

Bone-in thighs seasoned under and over the skin, topped with a garlic-Parmesan butter, and air fried until the crust is golden and the skin crisp.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 5 thighs
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp butter melted
  • 3-4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 tsp lemon zest optional
  • crushed red pepper optional
  • olive oil to mist

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small bowl
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the thighs dry. Season under and over the skin with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
  2. Stir the melted butter with the garlic, Parmesan, lemon zest, and pepper flakes. Spoon over the skin side and press gently.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and mist with olive oil.
  4. Cook skin-side up, spaced out, 18 to 22 minutes, to 175 to 185°F.
  5. Rest 5 minutes.

Notes

Season under the skin and press the crust gently so it stays put.
Freshly grated Parmesan browns into a crust; pre-grated stays dusty.
175 to 185°F for tender dark meat.