This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is coated in a tasty blend of mayo and parmesan cheese. It’s easy to make and turns out really crunchy without all the frying mess!
I love how juicy the chicken stays inside while the outside gets nice and crispy. Plus, no deep frying means less cleanup—win-win! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for their quick cooking time and lean profile. However, chicken thighs work just as well; they tend to be juicier. Choose what’s available or what you prefer!
Mayonnaise: Mayo helps the coating stick and adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayo. You can also use hummus for a different flavor twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds awesome flavor and crispiness. If you don’t have Parmesan, consider Pecorino Romano or a pre-shredded Italian cheese blend. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may change the flavor a bit!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko creates a light, crunchy texture. If you can’t find it, use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, but keep in mind that panko makes it extra crispy!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy coating is key! First, make sure to pat your chicken dry; this helps the mayo and breadcrumbs stick better. The mayo should fully coat the chicken, which helps create a nice crust when it’s cooked.
- Preheat the air fryer properly to kick-start that crispiness.
- Spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before cooking. This boosts browning.
- Avoid crowding the air fryer basket—giving chicken space helps it crisp up nicely.
- Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and browning on both sides.
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
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Miscellaneous:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken begins cooking immediately, helping to achieve that crispy outside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken breasts dry. This step is important as it helps the mayonnaise adhere well, ensuring each bite has lots of flavor.
3. Coat with Mayonnaise:
In a shallow bowl, take the mayonnaise and spread it evenly on all sides of the chicken. This creamy layer will help the breadcrumbs stick later.
4. Mix the Breading:
In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are blended together.
5. Bread the Chicken:
Now, take each mayo-coated chicken breast and press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to cover both sides thoroughly, and gently press the mixture onto the chicken so it sticks well.
6. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and allows for a nice, crispy finish.
7. Place Chicken in the Air Fryer:
Carefully lay the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re in a single layer without overlapping. This allows each piece to cook evenly.
8. Spray for Extra Crispiness:
Give the tops of the chicken a light spray with cooking spray. This tip helps them brown beautifully during cooking!
9. Cook the Chicken:
Set your air fryer to cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. You know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
10. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even juicier!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and dig into your warm, crispy, cheesy Chicken! Perfect served with a salad, veggies, or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy, and juicy Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and offer a bit more flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If panko is unavailable, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute. However, keep in mind that panko offers a lighter, crunchier texture that helps achieve that delightful crispiness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to bring back that crispy texture, or you can use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Make the Coating in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mayo and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to coat and cook the chicken. This can save time on a busy day!
