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Quick Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs – Easy Crockpot Recipe

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These Quick Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs are the perfect set-it-and-forget-it dinner. With a crispy golden crust and tender, juicy meat, this easy crockpot recipe is a crowd-pleaser that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken thighs (about 6-8), bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
  3. Drizzle the olive oil into the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot and spread it around to coat the bottom.
  4. Press each chicken thigh firmly into the Parmesan mixture, coating the top and sides. Do not coat the bottom.
  5. Place the coated chicken thighs in the crockpot in a single layer, skin side up. Try not to overlap them.
  6. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the chicken thighs.
  7. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours, or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
  8. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, remove the lid to allow moisture to escape and the top to get extra crispy.
  9. Let the chicken rest in the crockpot with the lid off for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, spoon any remaining juices over the top, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken very dry for the crispiest skin. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Do not overcrowd the crockpot; keep chicken in a single layer. For extra crispiness, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs, easy crockpot chicken, slow cooker chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, weeknight dinner, potluck recipe