This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a tasty treat! With juicy chicken coated in crunchy parmesan and a hint of mayo, it’s a delicious meal ready in no time.
I love making this when I want comfort food without the guilt. It’s easy and super crispy, plus the kids always ask for seconds! Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs for added juiciness. Alternatively, turkey cutlets work well too!
Mayonnaise: I love using mayo because it keeps the chicken moist. If you’re watching fat intake, try Greek yogurt or a light mayo. Both options still keep the coating from falling off!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor, but you could substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Just be mindful of the salt levels as Pecorino is saltier.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest texture, stick with panko. However, if you don’t have any on hand, regular breadcrumbs work. Just keep in mind they might not be as crunchy.
How Do You Get the Coating Extra Crispy?
Achieving a crunchy coating is all about the technique! Here’s how to ensure your chicken comes out crispy every time:
- Spread mayo thinly and evenly to cover the chicken. This helps the breadcrumbs stick.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a good layer.
- Preheat the air fryer properly. This is key for achieving that golden crust!
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; this allows hot air to circulate and crisps everything evenly.
Following these tips, your Chicken Parmesan will be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), sliced into cutlets or strips
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or oil spray for air fryer
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So, if you plan for about 30 minutes total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures your chicken gets that crispy texture right from the start.
2. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken cutlet or strip and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise all over it. The mayo isn’t just for flavor; it helps the cheese and breadcrumbs stick better!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Next, take the mayo-coated chicken pieces and dip them into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Gently press down to ensure the coating sticks well, covering each piece thoroughly.
5. Get the Air Fryer Ready:
Spray the air fryer basket with a light layer of cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. This helps to achieve a nice, crispy finish!
6. Arrange for Cooking:
Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping—you might need to cook them in batches for optimal crispiness.
7. Air Fry the Chicken:
Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get evenly crisp.
Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to make sure they’re fully cooked.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Serve it hot, and feel free to accompany it with marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh salad to complement the meal. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and juicy chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs if necessary. However, keep in mind that panko gives a crispier texture. If using regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them lightly beforehand for added crunch!
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
