Air fryer recipes have become a staple in our household, especially for quick weeknight meals and appetizers. When I stumbled upon this recipe for Air Fryer Parmesan-Thyme Artichokes, I knew I had to give it a try. Canned artichoke hearts are always in my pantry, and the combination of parmesan and thyme sounded absolutely divine. Let me tell you, this recipe did not disappoint! From prep to plate, it was incredibly fast, and the result was a batch of crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive artichoke hearts. My family devoured them in minutes, declaring them a new favorite. The air fryer creates the perfect texture – tender on the inside with beautifully browned and crispy edges. The parmesan cheese gets wonderfully golden and nutty, and the thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note that complements the artichokes perfectly. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive appetizer or side dish, look no further. These Air Fryer Parmesan-Thyme Artichokes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, grated
2 tsp. thyme leaves
Kosher salt and pepper
2 14-oz cans artichoke hearts, halved and patted very dry
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 lemon
2 Tbsp. flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Begin by preheating your air fryer to a temperature of 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, let’s focus on building the flavor base for our artichokes. In a large mixing bowl, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil is crucial here; it not only helps in even cooking and crisping but also acts as a flavor carrier for the other aromatics we’re about to add.

Next, take 2 cloves of garlic and grate them finely. Grated garlic is preferred over minced because it disperses more evenly and releases its pungent aroma and flavor more readily into the oil. Add the grated garlic to the olive oil in the bowl.

Now, for the herbaceous element, measure out 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves. Fresh thyme is best for its vibrant aroma and taste, but in a pinch, you could use dried thyme, although fresh is highly recommended. Gently rub the thyme leaves between your fingers to release their oils before adding them to the bowl. This simple step intensifies their fragrance and flavor.

Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with about 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Remember, you can always adjust seasoning later, so it’s better to start conservatively and taste as you go. These seasonings are fundamental in enhancing the natural flavors of the artichokes and other ingredients.

Step 2: Coat the Artichokes

Now it’s time to introduce the star of our dish: the artichoke hearts. You’ll need two 14-ounce cans of artichoke hearts. Drain the artichoke hearts thoroughly and then halve them. Pat them very dry with paper towels. This step is absolutely critical for achieving crispy artichokes in the air fryer. Excess moisture will steam the artichokes instead of allowing them to crisp up. Take your time and ensure they are as dry as possible.

Add the dried and halved artichoke hearts to the bowl with the olive oil and spice mixture. Gently toss everything together using your hands or a spatula to ensure that each artichoke heart is evenly coated with the flavorful oil mixture. This coating is essential for even browning and flavor infusion.

Once the artichokes are well-coated with the oil and spices, it’s time to add the parmesan cheese. We are using grated Parmesan cheese in two stages to maximize flavor and texture. For this step, measure out 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese (from the total 1/3 cup). Sprinkle the 3 tablespoons of parmesan over the artichokes in the bowl. Gently toss again to coat the artichokes with the cheese. The parmesan will adhere to the oil-coated artichokes, creating a delicious cheesy crust as they air fry.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully transfer the parmesan-coated artichoke hearts to the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, cut sides up. This orientation helps the parmesan topping on the cut sides to become beautifully golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and prevent proper crisping. If necessary, cook the artichokes in batches to ensure they are arranged in a single layer.

After arranging the artichokes, take the remaining Parmesan cheese – which should be about 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon – and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the artichokes in the air fryer basket. This extra layer of parmesan will create an even more pronounced cheesy crust and add to the overall flavor and visual appeal.

Now, slide the air fryer basket into the preheated air fryer and set the timer for 10 to 12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, around the 5-6 minute mark, pause the air fryer and shake the basket gently. Shaking the basket ensures even cooking and browning, preventing any artichokes from sticking to the basket and promoting overall crispiness.

Continue air frying for the remaining time, or until the artichokes are golden brown and beautifully crisp around the edges. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model and the desired level of crispness. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.

Step 4: Finishing Touches and Serving

Once the artichokes are perfectly air-fried, carefully remove the air fryer basket and transfer the crispy parmesan-thyme artichokes to a serving platter. Arrange them artfully to showcase their golden-brown color and cheesy crust.

Now for the final burst of freshness and flavor. Take half of a lemon and grate the zest using a microplane or fine grater. Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the richness of the parmesan and the earthiness of the thyme and artichokes. Sprinkle the freshly grated lemon zest evenly over the hot artichokes.

Finally, chop 2 tablespoons of fresh flat-leaf parsley. Parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green color to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal, but it also provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that balances the richness of the dish. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the lemon-zested artichokes.

Serve immediately while they are hot and at their crispiest. These Air Fryer Parmesan-Thyme Artichokes are perfect as a warm appetizer, a side dish, or even as part of a larger antipasto platter. Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy texture, cheesy richness, and herbaceous freshness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 145

Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

This recipe is incredibly quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The air fryer significantly cuts down on cooking time compared to traditional oven methods, allowing you to have a delicious appetizer or side dish ready in under 20 minutes.

How to Serve

These Air Fryer Parmesan-Thyme Artichokes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious suggestions:

As a Warm Appetizer: Serve them immediately as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Their crispy texture and cheesy, savory flavor make them irresistible. Arrange them beautifully on a platter and watch them disappear quickly at your next gathering or party.
Alongside Dips: Offer a selection of dipping sauces to enhance the flavor experience. Some excellent dipping options include:
- Garlic Aioli: A classic pairing, the creamy, garlicky aioli complements the artichokes beautifully.
- Lemon-Herb Mayonnaise: Enhance the lemon and herb notes already in the dish with a zesty lemon-herb mayo.
- Spicy Marinara Sauce: For a contrasting flavor profile, serve with a warm, spicy marinara sauce.
- Ranch Dressing: A familiar and comforting dip that many enjoy with crispy vegetables.
- Hummus: For a Mediterranean twist, serve with creamy hummus.
Part of an Antipasto Platter: Incorporate these artichokes into a larger antipasto platter. They pair wonderfully with other Italian-inspired appetizers like:
- Cured Meats: Salami, prosciutto, or pepperoni.
- Cheeses: Fresh mozzarella, provolone, or ricotta.
- Olives: Marinated olives of various types.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky roasted red peppers.
- Marinated Vegetables: Other marinated vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant.
- Crusty Bread or Crostini: For scooping and enjoying all the flavors.
As a Side Dish: Serve them as a flavorful and unique side dish to complement various main courses. They pair particularly well with:
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: The crispy artichokes provide a delightful textural contrast to grilled proteins.
- Steak or Roasted Meats: The savory flavors of the artichokes enhance rich meat dishes.
- Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside pasta with pesto, marinara, or creamy sauces for an Italian-inspired meal.
- Vegetarian Mains: They make a fantastic side for vegetarian entrees like lentil loaf, stuffed bell peppers, or vegetable skewers.
In Salads: Add cooled air fryer artichokes to salads for extra texture and flavor. They work well in:
- Mediterranean Salads: Combine with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salads: Add them to a classic Caesar salad for a unique twist.
- Warm Grain Salads: Toss them with grains like quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and a flavorful dressing.

Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan-Thyme Artichokes

Patting Dry is Key for Crispy Artichokes: We cannot stress this enough! Moisture is the enemy of crispiness in the air fryer. After draining the canned artichoke hearts, take the time to thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Press gently but firmly to remove as much surface moisture as possible. This step will ensure that the artichokes brown beautifully and achieve that desirable crispy exterior rather than steaming and becoming soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food to cook and crisp it. Overcrowding the basket restricts air circulation, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Arrange the artichokes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If you have a smaller air fryer or are making a larger batch, cook the artichokes in batches to ensure they have enough space for proper air circulation and crisping.
Adjust Cooking Time Based on Your Air Fryer: Air fryers can vary in their cooking power and temperature accuracy. The recipe suggests 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but your specific air fryer might cook faster or slower. Start checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark. The artichokes are ready when they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. If they are not crispy enough after 12 minutes, you can add a minute or two of cooking time, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Experiment with Different Cheeses: While Parmesan cheese provides a classic and robust flavor, feel free to experiment with other hard, grating cheeses for variations. Pecorino Romano offers a saltier and sharper flavor, while Asiago provides a nutty and slightly tangy taste. You can even try a blend of Parmesan and another hard cheese for a more complex flavor profile. Ensure the cheese is finely grated so it melts and crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Add a Touch of Heat: If you enjoy a little bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil mixture along with the thyme and garlic. The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes will complement the savory flavors of the parmesan and artichokes, adding another layer of complexity to the dish. Start with a small pinch and adjust to your spice preference. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who prefer more heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use frozen artichoke hearts for this recipe?

A: While fresh or canned artichoke hearts are recommended for optimal texture and ease, you can use frozen artichoke hearts if necessary. However, you’ll need to thaw them completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before proceeding with the recipe. Frozen artichokes tend to be more watery than canned, so patting them very dry is even more crucial. Keep in mind that frozen artichokes may not get quite as crispy as canned artichokes due to their higher water content. You might need to slightly increase the air frying time to achieve the desired crispiness.

Q2: I don’t have fresh thyme, can I use dried thyme instead?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried thyme for fresh thyme in this recipe. However, fresh thyme provides a brighter and more aromatic flavor. If using dried thyme, use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme for every 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so you need less. Add the dried thyme to the olive oil mixture and let it sit for a few minutes to rehydrate and release its flavor before adding the artichokes.

Q3: Can I make these artichokes ahead of time?

A: Air fryer artichokes are best enjoyed immediately when they are hot and crispy. Like most air-fried foods, they are at their peak texture right after cooking. If you make them ahead of time, they will lose some of their crispiness as they cool and sit. However, you can prepare the artichokes up to the point of air frying in advance. You can toss them with the olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply air fry them according to the recipe instructions.

Q4: How do I reheat leftover air fryer artichokes?

A: To reheat leftover air fryer artichokes and try to restore some of their crispiness, the best method is to reheat them in the air fryer again. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover artichokes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving them, as this will make them soggy. While they won’t be as perfectly crispy as freshly made, air frying is the best way to reheat them and regain some of their original texture.

Q5: Can I add other seasonings or flavors to these artichokes?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is a great base for experimenting with different flavors. Here are a few ideas to customize your air fryer parmesan-thyme artichokes:

Italian Seasoning: Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the olive oil mixture for a more pronounced Italian herb flavor.
Garlic Powder: For extra garlicky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder along with the fresh garlic.
Onion Powder: A pinch of onion powder can add a subtle savory depth.
Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Lemon Pepper: Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of plain black pepper for a more citrusy kick.
Chili Garlic Sauce: Toss the cooked artichokes with a drizzle of chili garlic sauce for a sweet and spicy glaze.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite herbs, spices, and flavor combinations to create your own signature version of air fryer artichokes!