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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs Recipe Easy Perfect Flavor with Capers

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

This crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs recipe delivers a perfect crust with juicy meat and a surprising tang from capers, making it an effortless and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 30 g)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 g)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 3 cloves freshly minced garlic
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp drained capers
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (about 45 g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (about 30 ml)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper and let sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
  3. Rub the freshly minced garlic into the chicken thighs, then press the skin side firmly into the Parmesan mixture so it sticks.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. When the butter foams and the oil shimmers (about 2-3 minutes), it’s ready.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down carefully into the pan. Cook without moving for 6-7 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy. Reduce heat if coating burns.
  6. Flip the chicken and add the remaining butter and capers to the pan. Spoon melted butter and capers over the chicken. Cook another 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken. Sprinkle chopped parsley if using. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for best crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Use a mix of butter and oil to prevent burning. Add capers at the end to keep their texture. Rest chicken before serving to keep it juicy. For thicker thighs, finish in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes after searing. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or under a broiler to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, capers, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, crispy skin chicken