This air fryer parmesan chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside! Coated with mayo and cheese, it’s super tasty and ready in no time.
Honestly, who thought mayo could make chicken so delicious? I love how easy it is—just slather and air fry. Perfect for a quick dinner or satisfying lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for more flavor, chicken thighs work well too. They tend to be juicier and have a richer taste.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo provides the best results for a creamy coating. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute—just know it won’t be as rich!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano is a lovely alternative. Just make sure it’s finely grated so it mixes well with the breadcrumbs.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the chicken that extra crunch. If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs can work, but your results may be slightly less crispy. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Crispy and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting that perfect crispy chicken requires a bit of attention, especially in the air fryer. Here’s how to ensure it comes out flawless:
- Pound the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and prevents parts from drying out.
- Coating: Generously coat the chicken in mayo first; it acts as glue for the panko and helps it crisp up nicely.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can steam the chicken rather than crisp it up.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to adjust. Always check the internal temperature for doneness.
- Let It Rest: After air frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain its juices for a juicy bite.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), pounded to even thickness
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 10-12 minutes to cook. In just a little over 15 minutes, you’ll have crunchy, flavorful chicken ready to enjoy!
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 ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix them well until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Spread the mayonnaise generously and evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. This tasty layer is crucial as it helps the breadcrumbs stick and keeps the chicken moist.
4. Dredge in the Coating:
Take each mayo-coated chicken breast and dredge it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the chicken.
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
6. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket; make sure they don’t overlap. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
7. Check for Doneness:
Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and that the outside is golden brown and crisp.
8. Let It Rest:
After cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken juicier and more tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious crispy chicken hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces. Enjoy every bite of this savory meal!
This method gives you a crispy, cheesy crust while the mayonnaise keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Perfect for a quick and impressive meal!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and tend to be juicier. Just be sure they’re boneless and skinless for the best results, and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a minute or two longer.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not keen on mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a healthier option. Alternatively, you can use sour cream for similar creaminess. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken in mayo and the breadcrumb mixture several hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to air fry it. This can help the coating adhere even better!
