This crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken is a game-changer! Coated in a tasty mix of mayonnaise and cheese, it’s golden and crunchy outside, juicy inside.
I love how quick and easy this dish is—just mix, dip, and air fry! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner when I want something delicious without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even turkey breast if that’s what you have on hand.
Mayonnaise: This keeps the chicken moist and helps the coating stick. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute with a similar creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated parmesan adds fantastic flavor. If you can’t find it, try Pecorino Romano or even a pecan blend for a different twist.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an extra crispy texture. If you’re out of panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but your chicken may not be as crunchy. To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder enhance flavor but feel free to spice it up with Italian seasoning or herbs like thyme or oregano!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Comes Out Extra Crispy?
Crispiness is key in this recipe! Here are some tips to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Coat chicken evenly in mayonnaise and then in the dry mixture. A thorough coating helps the breadcrumb mixture stick and crisp up during cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leave plenty of space between chicken pieces to allow for airflow, which is crucial for that crispy finish.
- Preheat your air fryer! This ensures that the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature immediately, helping it become crispy.
- Flip midway through cooking for even browning on both sides. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into strips or tenders
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or a little oil for spraying
How Much Time Do You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep and around 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So in just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This takes about 5 minutes and it’s an important step to ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
2. Coat the Chicken:
In a shallow bowl, take the mayonnaise and add your chicken strips. Make sure to coat each piece well so the breadcrumb mix sticks nicely!
3. Prepare the Coating:
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be your crunchy coating!
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each mayo-coated chicken strip and dredge it into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure it sticks all over. You want every bite to be crunchy!
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
6. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Remember, don’t overcrowd the basket—this will help them crisp up nicely!
7. Cook the Chicken:
Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Serve it up with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan chicken made easily and healthily in the air fryer!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko. You can also find gluten-free mayonnaise brands if needed, ensuring the entire dish remains gluten-free!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I Swap the Mayonnaise for Something Healthier?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise. It provides a similar creamy texture and adds some extra protein while reducing fat content!
