This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love! Juicy chicken coated with a crunchy parmesan crust makes it extra special.
You won’t believe how easy it is! Just mix mayo with cheese for the coating, pop it in the air fryer, and let it work its magic. Dinner time just got a whole lot better! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but you can also use thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Both work great in the air fryer!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the star here, giving moisture and helping the coating stick. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that delicious cheesy flavor and helps achieve a crispy coating. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a wonderful crunch! Regular breadcrumbs can work, but they won’t be quite as crispy. If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs in stores.
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crispy golden coating is key to this dish! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure the chicken is patted dry before starting. This helps the breading stick better.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray! A light spray on the basket and the coated chicken helps the coating crisp up without sticking.
- Cook in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around the chicken, ensuring it gets crispy.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking. This allows both sides to get that golden brown color.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have chicken that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside in no time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll be looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish. Easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Chicken:
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it’s heating up, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick properly!
2. Mix the Mayo Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is evenly blended. This creamy mixture is what makes the chicken so moist and flavorful.
3. Prepare the Crispy Coating:
In another shallow dish, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. This will give your chicken a deliciously crunchy exterior.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now it’s time for some fun! Take each piece of chicken and coat it with the mayo mixture, making sure it’s well covered. Then, dredge it in the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
5. Air Fry the Chicken:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. This way, they cook evenly!
6. Cooking Time:
Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip each piece and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and a golden, crispy coating.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help lock in the juices! Serve it hot and enjoy your crispy, flavorful parmesan chicken!
Bon Appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star of this recipe, you can also try this method with pork chops or turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking durations.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a mayo substitute, plain Greek yogurt works great and adds a nice tangy flavor. You could also use sour cream for a similar effect. Both options will help keep the chicken moist!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness or use the oven at a low temperature to heat through without losing texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. They are widely available at grocery stores and will give you the same delicious crunch without the gluten.
