This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a game-changer! Coated with a tasty mix of parmesan cheese and mayo, it gets a crunchy outside while staying juicy inside.
I love how quick and easy it is to make this dish in the air fryer. It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave something satisfying. Trust me, everyone will ask for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but you can also use thighs if you prefer darker meat. They tend to stay juicier!
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo works best for richness, but you can use light mayo or Greek yogurt if you want a lower-fat option! Both will still help the coating stick.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a great flavor. If you’re out of that, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano, which is a bit saltier but delicious.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These add an extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs will work, but your chicken may not be quite as crispy. For gluten-free, opt for gluten-free bread crumbs!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and the Coating Gets Crispy?
The secret to juicy chicken lies in the mayo coating. It not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken from drying out! Here’s how to master the cooking process:
- Make sure to preheat your air fryer. This helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps the coating crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; leave enough space for air to circulate around each piece.
- Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures both sides get that lovely golden color.
- Let the cooked chicken rest briefly after frying. This helps keep the juices in for a more tender bite.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
For The Coating:
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a little oil for spraying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. After that, you’ll want to let the chicken rest for a few minutes. So, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it heat up for about 5 minutes while you get everything ready. This way, your chicken will cook evenly.
2. Prepare The Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well so it’s evenly distributed.
3. Coat The Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the mayo and coating stick better! Spread about 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise evenly over each piece of chicken. Don’t be shy; it adds flavor!
4. Dredge In The Coating:
Next, take each mayo-coated chicken piece and dredge it in the Parmesan and panko mixture. Press down gently to ensure the coating sticks well. You want a good, thick layer for a crispy finish!
5. Add Some Crispiness:
Lightly spray both sides of each coated chicken piece with cooking spray or brush them with a little oil. This will help them to golden up nicely in the air fryer.
6. Cook The Chicken:
Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes. Then, flip the pieces over and cook for another 6-8 minutes. They should be golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making it more tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy chicken with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. Enjoy your deliciously crispy Parmesan chicken!
That’s it! You now have a tasty, crispy meal that’s easy to make. Enjoy every bite! 🍗
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want a healthier choice, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. It will still help the coating stick and add moisture, though the flavor may be a bit tangier. You can also use a light mayonnaise to reduce calories.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through for that crispy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just substitute regular panko bread crumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. The recipe will still turn out delicious and crispy!
