Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

If you’re craving a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with juicy, tender chicken, the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is here to rescue your dinner plans. This recipe brings together the creaminess of mayo and the sharp, savory flavor of Parmesan to create an irresistible crust that’s quick to make and perfect for any weeknight meal. With an air fryer doing most of the work, you’re just minutes away from plating a crunchy, flavorful delight that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly crispy texture: The air fryer locks in crunchiness without the need for deep frying.
• Simple and quick: Minimal prep and cooking time make it a perfect dinner on busy days.
• Rich, cheesy flavor: Parmesan cheese and mayo create a mouthwatering, golden crust.
• Healthy twist: Less oil and fewer calories compared to traditional frying methods.
• Family-approved: A kid-friendly recipe that appeals to all ages and tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a breeze when you have the right ingredients that enhance flavor and texture without complicating the process. Each one plays a role in achieving that perfect balance of creaminess and crunch.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless pieces ensure even cooking and tenderness.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and helps the Parmesan stick for a crispy coating.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers that signature nutty and salty crust.
• Garlic powder: Lends a subtle, savory depth to every bite.
• Paprika: For a hint of smoky flavor and a beautiful golden color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance and balance all flavors perfectly.
• Cooking spray: Helps crisp the crust and avoids sticking in the air fryer basket.

Variations for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, inviting you to tailor it according to what you have on hand, your dietary preferences, or flavor cravings. Feel free to experiment and make it uniquely yours with these simple swaps.

• Herb-infused crust: Add dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley to the Parmesan for extra aroma.
• Spicy kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or chili flakes for those who like heat.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute Parmesan with gluten-free breadcrumbs for texture while keeping the crust intact.
• Lemon zest twist: Add grated lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile.
• Dairy-free adaption: Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry to ensure the coating adheres well. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for base flavor before dipping.

Step 2: Coat with Mayo

Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on each breast. Mayo acts as the perfect binder that keeps the Parmesan cheese crispy and clings to the chicken while providing moisture inside.

Step 3: Add Parmesan Crust

Generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mayo-coated chicken, pressing lightly to form a crust that will become golden and crunchy when air fried.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the crust achieve that perfect crunch.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is beautifully golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy inside and seals in the flavors, ready for serving.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

• Even thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Don’t overload: Place chicken in a single layer without overlapping to ensure crispiness.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and forms a superior crust.
• Light mayo layer: Too much mayo can make the crust soggy, so keep it thin.
• Flip carefully: Use tongs to flip, preserving that cheesy crust on both sides.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a bright, fresh finish, while a light squeeze of lemon juice complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to round out a satisfying meal full of contrasting textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and serve over a bed of garlic butter pasta or crisp arugula for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s simple yet elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for quick lunches or easy dinners that reheat well.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To maintain crispiness, reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes rather than using a microwave, which can soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work great and tend to stay juicier, though cooking times may vary slightly. Just adjust to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Is mayonnaise necessary in this recipe?

Mayonnaise is key because it adds moisture and helps the Parmesan stick, forming a crispy crust. If you prefer, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, though the texture will slightly vary.

Can I cook frozen chicken in the air fryer with this recipe?

It’s best to thaw chicken first for even cooking and to allow the mayo and Parmesan to adhere properly. Cooking from frozen might result in uneven crust and doneness.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest point for safe and juicy chicken every time.

Can I add other spices to the crust?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in spices like Italian seasoning, onion powder, or smoked paprika to customize the flavor to your preference.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the crispy, cheesy joy of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo to brighten up your dinner routine. This easy, flavorful recipe brings together simple ingredients and quick cooking techniques to deliver a comforting meal that everyone will love. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this delicious chicken that’s crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying all at once!

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