This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a total winner! It features juicy chicken coated in a tasty mayo and Parmesan mix, then air-fried to golden perfection.
The best part? You get all that crunch without the guilt of frying! I love serving it with a fresh salad or some veggies for a lovely dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless breasts are my go-to for this recipe, but thighs work great too. They tend to be juicier, and you won’t lose any flavor!
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo is perfect for a rich coating. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo instead—they taste good too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely sharpness. You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a stronger kick or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
Breadcrumbs: I like Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, there are many gluten-free breadcrumbs available or substitute with crushed almonds or cornflakes!
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crispy coating is easy with these tips! The mayo and Parmesan mix creates a fantastic crust, but here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- First, preheat your air fryer. This helps to start the cooking process quickly and promotes crispness.
- Make sure to pat your chicken dry before coating. This helps the coating stick better and ensures no excess moisture gets trapped.
- Coat well! The mayo mixture needs to cover every part of the chicken for a great crust. Add breadcrumbs if you want extra crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—leave space between pieces to allow hot air to circulate and crisp everything up.
- Flip halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get that perfect golden look.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have fabulous crispy chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full fat for better coating)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Italian-style seasoned breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)
- For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy chicken recipe takes about 5 minutes of prep time and around 12-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this delicious dish ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps your chicken get that perfect crispy texture right from the start.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken pieces dry. This helps the coating to stick better. Next, generously coat each piece of chicken in the mayo-Parmesan mixture, making sure they are fully covered. If you like, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top or press them lightly onto the coated chicken for an extra crunch.
4. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap to allow for even cooking. Give the tops a light spray with cooking spray for a beautiful golden finish.
5. Air Fry the Chicken:
Cook the chicken in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Be sure to flip the pieces halfway through to get them crispy on both sides! Check for doneness; the chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle, keeping it moist. Serve hot with your favorite sides, dipping sauces, or a nice salad.
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and juicy air fryer Parmesan chicken!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and can make for an even more flavorful dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if they are thicker, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a mayo substitute! You could also try using avocado or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the air fryer to restore some crispness—just heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
