This crispy air fryer parmesan chicken is a tasty treat! Coated in a mix of parmesan cheese and mayo, it comes out golden and crunchy, all without the extra oil.
The best part? You won’t even miss frying it! I love how quick and easy it is—just season, coat, and air fry. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you’re looking for something juicier, chicken thighs are a tasty option too! They bring a little more flavor and tenderness.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient is key for keeping the chicken moist while adding flavor. If you want a healthier option, try Greek yogurt instead. It gives a similar creaminess but with less fat!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that delicious, cheesy crust. Pecorino Romano can make a good substitute if you’re looking for something a bit sharper. Just remember to adjust your salt, as Pecorino is saltier!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a super crispy texture! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but for a crunchier result, add some crushed cornflakes or even crushed tortilla chips!
How Do I Make My Chicken Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Achieving that perfect crispiness is all about the coating and air circulation. Here’s how to ensure success:
- After coating the chicken with mayo, make sure to press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. This helps the breadcrumbs stick!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space around the chicken for the hot air to circulate, which helps it crisp up perfectly on all sides.
- Lightly spraying the tops with cooking spray before frying adds an extra layer of crunch!
- Flip halfway through cooking to help both sides become golden and crispy.
Letting the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender. Enjoy your meal!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Coating:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
To Cook:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer, totaling around 30 minutes for a delicious, crunchy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps get that nice crispy texture right from the start!
2. Mix the Mayo Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it together until smooth and mixed well. This is what will keep your chicken moist and flavorful!
3. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. This will create a lovely, crunchy crust.
4. Dry the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken breasts dry. This helps the coating stick better and keeps the chicken nice and crunchy.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and coat it evenly with the mayo mixture. Make sure it’s fully covered for maximum flavor!
6. Press into Breadcrumbs:
Then, press each mayo-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Ensure all sides are well coated by gently pressing so the crumbs stick well.
7. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer. It’s important to leave space between each piece so they can cook evenly.
8. Spray the Chicken:
Once all the chicken is in, lightly spray the tops of each piece with cooking spray. This will help them become golden and crispy!
9. Air Fry the Chicken:
Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, flip each piece to ensure they cook evenly. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the coating is a lovely golden brown.
10. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the juices redistribute for juicy chicken.
Enjoy this crunchy, savory parmesan chicken with your favorite veggies or a fresh salad! It’s a meal the whole family will love!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They are a bit juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your thighs are larger, ensuring they reach the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will still provide creaminess and help the coating stick, while being lower in fat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I Make These Chicken Breasts Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prep and coat the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cook it within 24 hours for the best freshness and flavor!
