Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Panko and Parmesan Coating

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Panko and Parmesan Coating

1 8 servings
These Panko and Parmesan-coated oven fried chicken thighs are light and affordable and flavored with a mixture of honey, garlic powder, and mustard.

Ingredients

  • 8 bone-in chicken thighs

    about 3 pounds

  • 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 5 tablespoons butter

    melted

  • 3 tablespoons mustard

    spicy or grainy

  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup

    or honey

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

    or about 1/4 cup grated

  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    to taste
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather the ingredients.

  2. 2

    Heat the oven to 375 F. Set a rack on a large foil-lined baking sheet.

  3. 3

    Pat the chicken thighs with paper towels to dry them. Trim any excess fat or skin. The skin adds juiciness and flavor, but feel free to remove it if desired.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle the chicken pieces with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

  5. 5

    In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the mustard, maple syrup or honey, and garlic powder.

  6. 6

    In another shallow bowl, combine the panko crumbs with shredded or grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and parsley.

  7. 7

    Brush or rub the chicken thighs all over with the butter and mustard mixture and then press all sides in the panko mixture to coat thoroughly.

  8. 8

    Place the coated chicken thighs on the rack over the prepared baking sheet.

  9. 9

    Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. The juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced with a fork.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Panko and Parmesan Coating

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Panko and Parmesan Coating

65 min1 8 servings

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About this Recipe

Craving that satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the mess or extra oil? These Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs With Panko and Parmesan Coating are your answer, delivering an oven-fried experience that's both flavorful and lighter, perfect for any weeknight dinner.

The magic in this recipe truly lies in its clever coating. By combining panko breadcrumbs with savory Parmesan cheese, you achieve an incredibly crisp, golden crust that rivals traditionally fried chicken. This innovative approach, coupled with a delicious balance of maple syrup (or honey), garlic powder, and mustard, ensures every bite is packed with juicy chicken and irresistible flavor.

Prepare for incredibly tender, succulent chicken thighs enveloped in a remarkably golden, extra-crispy shell. The subtle tang of mustard and the warmth of garlic powder perfectly complement the savory richness of the chicken, while the maple syrup (or honey) adds a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully. The Parmesan cheese melts into the panko, creating an umami-rich crunch that's utterly satisfying. This oven-baked method makes for a lighter, more affordable take on a classic comfort food that's surprisingly simple to prepare.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to adjust the paprika to your preference, from a subtle hint to a bolder, smoky note. You can also experiment with different types of mustard; a spicy brown mustard will add more kick, while a milder Dijon offers a more delicate flavor. If you're out of maple syrup, honey works perfectly as a substitute.

These flavorful chicken thighs are ideal for a satisfying family dinner. Serve them alongside your favorite roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions