Looking for a way to enjoy crispy, golden, and flavorful chicken without deep frying? Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the perfect solution! This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy, cheesy crust—all made in the air fryer for a healthier twist on classic fried chicken. The secret ingredient? Mayo! Yes, you heard it right. The mayo helps keep the chicken moist and adds a delightful richness to the Parmesan crust.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, meal prepping, or looking to impress your family, this air fryer chicken is easy to make, packed with flavor, and will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Is So Special
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is special because it combines the convenience of air frying with the richness of a Parmesan crust. The mayonnaise acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs and Parmesan, ensuring the crust stays intact and crispy while keeping the chicken tender on the inside. Air frying, of course, means that you can achieve that golden, crispy texture without the need for excess oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Plus, the chicken cooks in less time than in a conventional oven, making it a quick and easy dinner option. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can pair it with your favorite sides or use it in salads, sandwiches, or wraps!
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients that are packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for binding)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for the crust)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, depending on your preference)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil spray (for air frying)
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is simple and quick. With just a few steps, you’ll have a crispy, golden chicken that’s juicy on the inside and full of flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Flatten the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Crust:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
- In another shallow bowl, add the mayonnaise.
3. Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the mayonnaise, ensuring it’s evenly coated. The mayo will act as the perfect adhesive for the crust.
- Then, dredge the mayo-coated chicken breast in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Make sure both sides are evenly coated.
4. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, spray a little more olive oil on the chicken for extra crispiness.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a variety of sides to create a complete meal.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a healthy and flavorful side.
- Pasta: Pair with a simple pasta dish, like spaghetti or fettuccine, for a hearty meal.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons would pair perfectly with the savory chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or even mashed cauliflower would complement the crispy chicken beautifully.
Beverage Pairing for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
- White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio would pair nicely with the richness of the Parmesan crust.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime adds a refreshing contrast to the meal.
- Iced Tea: A cold glass of unsweetened iced tea can balance the richness of the chicken.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
- Don’t Skip the Mayo: The mayonnaise is the key to keeping the chicken moist while ensuring the Parmesan crust sticks perfectly. Don’t be afraid to use it generously!
- Air Fry in Batches: If you’re making more than 2 chicken breasts, it’s best to air fry them in batches so that they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with additional seasonings, like paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, or lemon zest, to give the chicken extra flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want the chicken even crispier, you can lightly spray it with olive oil before air frying. This helps achieve an extra golden, crunchy exterior.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs might take a little longer to cook than breasts.
2. Can I make this recipe without mayo?
If you prefer not to use mayo, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a mustard-based sauce to achieve a similar effect, though the flavor may differ slightly.
3. Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use store-bought breadcrumbs, but I recommend panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. You can also season plain breadcrumbs with your favorite herbs and spices.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds as a substitute. Make sure the other ingredients you use, like chicken broth and seasoning, are gluten-free.
5. Can I add other herbs to the crust?
Definitely! You can experiment with different herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley for added flavor. Fresh herbs can be added directly to the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
7. Can I air fry frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can air fry frozen chicken breasts. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Can I use a different type of cheese for the crust?
Yes, you can use Mozzarella, Parmesan, or Asiago cheese as alternatives, depending on your flavor preference.
9. Can I make the chicken spicier?
For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also drizzle the finished chicken with hot sauce for extra heat.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain the crispiness.