Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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Cook Time: 12 minutes

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
• Cooking spray

Directions:

1. Gather all the ingredients and have them ready for easy access.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 400F (200C).
3. Place the chicken thighs into a large mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, oregano, salt, and crushed red pepper. Toss the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated in the seasonings.
4. In a separate shallow dish, combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese and panko bread crumbs.
5. Dredge the seasoned chicken thighs in the parmesan-panko mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. Any remaining mixture can be sprinkled over the chicken and gently patted to adhere.
6. Generously coat the chicken with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Carefully place the chicken thighs into the basket, making sure not to overcrowd (you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
8. Air fry the chicken for 12 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken reads 170F (77C).
9. Once cooked, serve immediately for best results.

Recipe Tip: For a fresh side dish, whisk together 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of honey in a large bowl. Toss in 6 cups of baby arugula and/or baby spinach until well coated. Serve alongside your chicken.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	365
Total Fat	17g (22% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	6g (31% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	218mg (73% Daily Value)
Sodium	841mg (37% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates	8g (3% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	46g (92% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (2% Daily Value)
Calcium	148mg (11% Daily Value)
Iron	2mg (13% Daily Value)
Potassium	521mg (11% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins of Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in chicken dishes has roots in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Italian cooking. Garlic and lemon have long been used to enhance poultry, while Parmesan adds a rich, nutty flavor. The modern adaptation of cooking chicken in an air fryer is a contemporary twist that combines classic flavors with convenient, health-conscious preparation. This method allows the chicken to develop a crispy exterior while retaining juiciness, reflecting the evolution of traditional recipes to fit modern kitchen technology.

Regional Variations

While the base ingredientslemon, garlic, and Parmesanremain consistent, regional variations exist. In the United States, this dish often incorporates panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and may include herbs such as oregano or thyme. In Southern Italy, a similar dish might feature fresh lemon juice and a blend of local cheeses instead of Parmesan. These regional differences highlight how simple ingredients can be adapted to suit local tastes and ingredient availability.

Differences from Similar Dishes

This recipe differs from traditional fried chicken in its use of the air fryer instead of deep frying, resulting in lower fat content while maintaining a crispy crust. Unlike baked chicken Parmesan, which typically involves marinara sauce, this dish focuses on the direct flavors of lemon, garlic, and cheese. The balance of zesty lemon with savory Parmesan and aromatic garlic sets it apart from other seasoned chicken recipes, offering a lighter yet flavorful alternative.

Typical Serving Occasions

Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken is versatile and served in a variety of settings. It can be a weeknight dinner paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, a casual weekend lunch, or part of a more elaborate dinner party menu. Its elegant flavors and appealing golden crust also make it suitable for small gatherings where both taste and presentation matter.

Interesting Facts

• The air fryer, popularized in the 2010s, uses rapid hot air circulation to mimic deep frying, reducing oil usage by up to 80%.
• Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, is aged for at least 12 months, which gives it a complex flavor profile that enhances the dish without additional seasoning.
• Lemon zest contains essential oils that are more aromatic than lemon juice alone, providing a bright, fresh flavor that complements garlic.
• This dish is high in protein while keeping carbohydrates relatively low, making it a popular choice for balanced, modern diets.
• The combination of lemon and garlic has been historically used in Mediterranean diets not only for flavor but also for their antioxidant and digestive benefits.

FAQ about Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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