Air Fryer Caesar Parmesan Crusted Chicken Thighs
Crispy bone-in chicken thighs coated in a rich Caesar dressing and sour cream mixture, then crusted with Parmesan cheese and pork rind crumbs. The air fryer creates an incredibly crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Perfect for a low-carb dinner that delivers bold Caesar salad flavors in every bite. The combination of tangy Caesar dressing, creamy sour cream, and nutty Parmesan creates a restaurant-quality coating that's both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat air fryer to 375°F
- 2
Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels
- 3
Season chicken thighs lightly with pepper
- 4
Mix Parmesan cheese, Caesar dressing, and sour cream in a bowl
- 5
Dip each chicken thigh into Caesar mixture until well coated
- 6
Dredge coated chicken in pork rind crumbs, pressing gently to adhere
- 7
Place chicken thighs in air fryer basket without touching
- 8
Cook for 25-30 minutes at 375°F until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F
- 9
Flip chicken halfway through cooking time
- 10
Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving
Tips
Pat chicken completely dry before coating to ensure better adhesion and crispier results.
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket - cook in batches if needed for proper air circulation.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for food safety.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked chicken for up to 3 days in airtight container
Can coat chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate before air frying
Best served immediately while coating is crispy
Common Mistakes
Don't skip patting chicken dry to avoid soggy coating
Don't overcrowd air fryer basket to avoid uneven cooking
Don't skip resting time to avoid dry chicken
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 18-22 minutes as boneless thighs cook faster than bone-in pieces.
What if I don't have pork rind crumbs?
Substitute with crushed pork rinds, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers for similar texture and crunch.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.