This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a game changer! It’s juicy chicken coated in a tasty mix of parmesan and mayo, giving it a golden, crunchy crust that’s hard to resist.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip this up for dinner. Plus, using the air fryer means less oil, but double the crunch! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays! 🐔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs. They tend to be more flavorful and stay juicy.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat or homemade mayo works best for a rich coating. If you’re watching your calories, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo instead! They both provide moisture and help the crumbs stick.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan gives a wonderful taste and texture. If it’s not available, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko is lighter and crispier compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you’re out of panko, crush some cornflakes, or use regular breadcrumbs, though the texture won’t be the same.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
The key to getting that crunch is in how you prepare the chicken and the coating. First, pat the chicken dry; moisture will make it hard for the coating to stick. Then, the mayonnaise should be spread evenly so it not only adheres the crumbs but also keeps the chicken juicy during cooking.
- Mix your dry ingredients well: This ensures every bite has that tasty Parmesan flavor.
- Press the chicken into the crumb mixture: Make sure to coat all sides. A gentle press will help everything stick.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give each piece its space to cook evenly and get crispy.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray before cooking for extra crunch.
Give these tips a try, and you’ll have perfectly crispy, juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat or homemade)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 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 olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, you can enjoy your crispy chicken in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy finish.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a medium bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper together. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
3. Get the Chicken Ready:
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps the mayonnaise and coating stick better.
4. Apply the Mayonnaise:
Now, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast. Not only does this keep the chicken moist, but it also helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere well.
5. Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture:
Take each mayo-coated chicken breast and press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to coat all sides well, and gently press the crumbs on to help them stick.
6. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, ensuring your chicken can come out easily once cooked.
7. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even airflow and cooking.
8. Spray for Extra Crispiness:
Give the tops of the chicken a light spray with cooking spray. This little touch will help achieve that beautiful golden brown color.
9. Air Fry the Chicken:
Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure it’s crispy all around. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
10. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle for a juicy bite!
11. Enjoy!
Serve your crispy, cheesy air fryer chicken warm, paired with your favorite sides or dipping sauces. Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!
Bon appétit! Your crispy chicken awaits! 🍽️✨
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for breasts and can provide more flavor and tenderness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if the thighs are thicker, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, it’s best to reheat it in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure your mayonnaise is also gluten-free. Enjoy the same crispy goodness without the gluten!
Is There a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you don’t have mayonnaise or prefer not to use it, you can substitute Greek yogurt or a homemade mixture of olive oil with a bit of lemon juice. Both options will keep your chicken moist while still allowing the breadcrumbs to stick!
