This crispy air fryer parmesan chicken is a real treat! Coated in a tasty mix of mayo and parmesan, it gives a crunchy outside with juicy chicken inside.
I love how easy it is to whip up for dinner. Plus, my family can’t get enough of that crispy coating! Just remember to hide some for yourself—you might need it! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken tenders. For a different protein, turkey cutlets work well too!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise helps with sticking and adds moisture. If you’re watching calories, try light mayo or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Both will give a creamy base.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for flavor and texture. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Just remember—it’s saltier, so adjust salt accordingly!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives that desirable crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but they won’t be as crispy. Gluten-free options are available too!
How Do I Make the Coating Stick Perfectly?
Getting that crispy coating just right can be a little tricky. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry first. This helps the mayo and breadcrumb mix stick well.
- When coating, really press the breadcrumbs into the mayo-covered chicken. This creates a thicker layer.
- Use a cooking spray to lightly coat the chicken after breading. This helps achieve that golden brown, crispy finish.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Air circulation is key for crispiness.
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 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for air fryer basket
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5-10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll cook it in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 20-25 minutes to serve up this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken pieces dry. This helps the mayonnaise stick and keeps the chicken from becoming too watery when cooked.
3. Spread the Mayo:
In a bowl, take your mayonnaise and evenly spread it over each piece of chicken. Make sure to coat all sides for the best flavor!
4. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a separate shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This will be the crispy coating that makes your chicken so tasty!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each mayo-coated chicken piece into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well. You want a nice, thick coating for that crunch!
6. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil. This prevents the chicken from sticking and helps it crisp up nicely.
7. Place in Air Fryer:
Now, place your coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd them—this allows for better air circulation and crispiness.
8. Cook the Chicken:
Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should turn golden brown and crispy. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
9. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making your chicken more tender.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken hot. It’s delicious on its own, or you can pair it with a side of dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan chicken with that delightful touch of creaminess from the mayo!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great in this recipe. Just be sure to slice them evenly to ensure they cook through at the same rate as thighs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, keeping them nice and crispy!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want to substitute mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice—it adds creaminess and a bit of tang. You’ll still get a delicious coating! For a dairy-free option, try using an egg wash with a bit of olive oil mixed in.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free! Just use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and check that your mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free as well. Your dish will be just as tasty!
