Sometimes, all you want is a super crispy, satisfying chicken meal. I know I do! Whether you’re a fan of quick air fryer dinners or prefer a classic oven-baked approach, getting that perfect golden crust on your chicken is easier than you think.
Today, I’m sharing two fantastic recipes for crispy parmesan chicken. Both are simple to make and promise a delicious result that your whole family will enjoy. You really can’t go wrong with either one!
Jump to Recipe:
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken for an Easy Meal
I love how easy it is to get really crispy chicken in the air fryer. This recipe uses mayonnaise to keep the chicken moist and help the parmesan crust stick.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Air Fryer Chicken
- Mayo Base: This helps the coating stick to your chicken and keeps it very juicy inside while cooking.
- Finely Grated Parmesan: Use finely grated parmesan cheese for the best, most even and crispy crust on your chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if your air fryer basket is small. This ensures each piece gets crispy.
What You Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep Chicken & Coating Mix
Pat the chicken breasts very dry with paper towels. In one shallow dish, mix the mayonnaise with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Coat Chicken Evenly
Dip each chicken breast into the mayo mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any extra mayo drip off. Then, press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan-Panko mixture until it’s well covered on all sides.
Step 3: Air Fry for Crispy Results
Place the coated chicken in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until it is golden brown and cooked all the way through.
📝 Final Note
Always check your chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Classic Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the Oven
This parmesan chicken is a family favorite and it’s so simple to make in your oven. You’ll get tender chicken with a golden, crunchy crust every time.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Oven-Baked Chicken
- Egg Wash: An egg wash helps the crust stick perfectly to the chicken and turn a beautiful golden brown as it bakes.
- Proper Pounding: Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for uniform cooking and crispiness.
- High Heat: Baking at a slightly higher temperature, like 400°F, helps achieve that nice, crispy crust you’re looking for.
What You Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or Panko)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Set Up Breading Stations
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare three shallow dishes. Put flour in the first dish. In the second, whisk the eggs. In the third, combine the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Coat Chicken Perfectly
First, dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated on all sides.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over each piece. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
📝 Final Note
Serve this delicious chicken immediately for the best crispy texture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.