Are you looking for a crispy, golden-brown chicken recipe that’s not only delicious but also healthier than traditional fried chicken? Look no further! This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a game-changer. With a flavorful crust made of Parmesan cheese, spices, and mayo, you'll get that perfect crunch with every bite. Read on to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish and impress your family or guests with minimal effort.
What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a simple and quick recipe that results in juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy Parmesan crust. Using the air fryer makes the cooking process healthier because it requires little to no oil, yet it gives you the same delicious crunch you’d expect from deep-frying. The mayo adds extra moisture and a rich flavor, while the Parmesan cheese creates a savory and crisp outer layer that’s irresistible. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.
Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Ingredients List for the Marinade (optional but recommended)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions and Variations
There are a few easy swaps you can make depending on what you have on hand. If you’re out of mayo or prefer a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works just as well, adding the same creaminess to the crust. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Romano or Asiago in place of Parmesan for a slightly different flavor profile. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Want to add a little heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to spice things up. For those who prefer a different cut of chicken, thighs or drumsticks work well, too—just adjust the cooking time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Prepare the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more evenly in the air fryer. You can also pound the chicken to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Mix the mayo and seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will act as the binding agent for the Parmesan crust.
- Coat the chicken: Use a spoon or brush to spread an even layer of the mayo mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Add the Parmesan crust: In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs. Press this mixture onto the chicken breasts, ensuring an even coat on both sides.
- Spray with oil: Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer.
- Air fry the chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden and crispy.
- Let it rest: Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to Cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is easy if you follow these steps closely. First, always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. The key to getting that signature crispiness is coating the chicken well and making sure it’s not overcrowded in the fryer basket. Don’t skip the step of flipping the chicken halfway through—this ensures both sides get perfectly golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this ensures the chicken is fully cooked without being overdone and dry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the preheat step: Always preheat your air fryer. It ensures even cooking and helps the chicken get that crispy crust you’re aiming for.
- Overcrowding the basket: It’s important to give the chicken enough space to cook evenly. If your air fryer basket is too crowded, the hot air won’t circulate properly, leading to soggy, undercooked chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using too little seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously. Since the chicken is coated in mayo and cheese, it needs bold seasoning to balance the flavors.
- Not checking the internal temperature: Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through. Using a meat thermometer is your best bet.
- Forgetting to flip: To get a nice, even crust, make sure to flip the chicken halfway through cooking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation plays a huge role in how appealing your dish looks and tastes. Serve the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken on a large plate garnished with fresh parsley or basil. You can serve the chicken alongside a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal. The bright green herbs will contrast beautifully with the golden-brown chicken, making your dish look restaurant-quality. A slice of lemon on the side adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness when squeezed over the top.
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a low-carb option, or with mashed potatoes or rice for something more filling. For a more casual meal, you can slice the chicken and use it in sandwiches or wraps with some fresh veggies and a light dressing. It’s also delicious sliced over a Caesar salad for a protein-packed lunch.
Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
If you want to take your presentation to the next level, consider slicing the chicken into strips and fanning them out on the plate. Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the top for a gourmet touch, or place the chicken over a bed of greens for a colorful, healthy presentation. Add some roasted cherry tomatoes on the side for a burst of color and extra flavor.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tips
- Use panko breadcrumbs: They provide a lighter, crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs.
- Season the breadcrumbs: For added flavor, mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chicken to brighten up the dish and cut through the richness of the mayo and cheese.
- Make extra: This recipe is great for meal prep. You can store leftover chicken in the fridge and enjoy it over the next few days, either cold or reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook than breasts.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the chicken in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Be sure to use a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to retain the crispiness.
Can I freeze Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer to regain crispiness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a fantastic recipe that’s easy to make and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of crispy Parmesan crust and juicy chicken is truly irresistible. Plus, using an air fryer makes the dish healthier without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something impressive for a dinner party, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
PrintAir Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with mayo delivers a crispy, flavorful crust with tender, juicy chicken inside. The combination of Parmesan, mayo, and a golden breading gives the chicken an irresistible texture and taste. This easy air fryer recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the mayo, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Coat each chicken breast with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil (optional).
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden and crispy.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use a light mist of oil spray on top before cooking.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference, like adding Italian herbs or cayenne for spice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
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