Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something crispy and delicious. This recipe comes together in just a few steps and takes minimal time to prepare, making it ideal for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
1. Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts: To ensure even cooking, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about ½ inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly in the air fryer.
Season the chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This adds a base layer of flavor to the chicken before applying the Parmesan-mayo mixture.
Step 2: Make the Parmesan Mayo Mixture
Mix the ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined. This mixture will form the flavorful crust that coats the chicken.
Optional panko topping: For an extra layer of crunch, you can mix panko breadcrumbs with a little more Parmesan cheese and set it aside. This will be sprinkled on top of the mayo mixture later to give the chicken a crispy, golden finish.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Spread the Parmesan mayo mixture: Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread the Parmesan mayo mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Be generous with the coating, as this helps create the flavorful crust.
Optional panko topping: If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the mayo-coated chicken breasts. This step adds extra texture and crunch, but the dish will still be delicious without it.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature, helping it develop a crispy crust.
Place the chicken in the air fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Cook the chicken: Air fry the chicken for 15-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the breasts. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the crust isn’t as crispy as you like, you can air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Garnish: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and freshness.
Serve immediately: Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with your favorite sides
2. Variations of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken: For a spicy twist, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mayo mixture. This adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy, cheesy crust.
Garlic Herb Parmesan Chicken: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the Parmesan mayo mixture. These herbs pair beautifully with the garlic and Parmesan, giving the dish a fragrant, earthy flavor.
Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken: For a low-carb version, skip the panko breadcrumbs and focus on the Parmesan-mayo coating. This dish is already keto-friendly because of the high-fat ingredients like mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for those following a ketogenic diet.
Cheesy Parmesan Chicken: For an extra cheesy version, add a layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. The melted mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy layer that pairs perfectly with the crispy Parmesan crust.
3. What to Serve with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or carrots. The crispy chicken contrasts beautifully with the tender, slightly caramelized vegetables.
Mashed Potatoes: A side of creamy mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy, cheesy chicken. The rich, buttery potatoes complement the savory flavors of the Parmesan crust.
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and croutons is a great option. The light, tangy dressing balances the richness of the chicken.
Rice Pilaf: For a lighter side, serve the chicken with rice pilaf. The fluffy, seasoned rice pairs well with the bold flavors of the Parmesan crust and adds a satisfying texture to the meal.
Pasta: You can also serve the chicken with a simple pasta dish like spaghetti aglio e olio or pesto pasta. The chicken’s cheesy crust complements the flavors of the pasta without overwhelming it.
4. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storing: Store any leftover Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will still retain its flavor, though the crust may lose some of its crispiness.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. Reheating in the air fryer helps restore some of the crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as this can make the crust soggy.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a quick and easy recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. This dish is versatile enough for a casual weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a family gathering or dinner party. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this air fryer chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
