This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a game changer! Coated in a delightful mix of mayo and parmesan, it gets perfectly crunchy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
I love how quick and easy this recipe is—just mix, coat, and air fry! It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds, and I’ll admit, I always go back for that extra bite! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you could use turkey breast instead.
Mayonnaise: Mayo is essential for keeping the chicken moist and helping the coating stick. If you’re looking for lighter choices, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, providing a nice tang.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is crucial for a nice cheesy crust. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, though they might not be quite as crispy.
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these tips! First, make sure to pat your chicken dry before adding mayo. This helps the coating stick better without moisture interference.
- Coat the chicken well in mayo to ensure the breadcrumb mix adheres properly.
- Use a good amount of panko and Parmesan in the coating to enhance crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Space allows hot air circulation for even cooking.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to crisp both sides evenly.
Be sure to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Enjoy the crunch!
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
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, and it’s important for getting your chicken nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels. This step is key—keeping the chicken dry helps the coating stick better and gives you that perfect crunch.
3. Coat with Mayo:
In a shallow bowl, spread the mayonnaise evenly over all sides of each piece of chicken. The mayo will keep the chicken moist while also acting as a glue for the coating!
4. Mix the Coating:
In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs (if you’re using them). Mix everything well to create your crunchy coating.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take each mayo-coated chicken piece and press it firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture. Make sure all sides are coated well to ensure that delicious crispy crust!
6. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. A little oil makes a big difference!
7. Air Fry the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow the hot air to circulate. You might need to cook in batches if you have a lot of chicken.
8. Cooking Time:
Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken pieces to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on both sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
9. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken even juicier. Then, serve and enjoy your crispy, cheesy chicken!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely first. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method for a quicker defrost. Once thawed, pat it dry before coating in mayo to ensure the crust adheres well.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, simply replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just make sure to double-check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to retain that crispy texture!
Can I Add More Seasoning?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices. Adding paprika for a smoky flavor, cayenne for heat, or Italian seasoning for a herby punch can elevate the taste. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly if you’re adding salty ingredients!
