Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe
Introduction
The aroma of golden, crispy chicken wafting through your kitchen is like a warm hug for your senses. This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo delivers a juicy interior with a crunchy, cheesy crust that’s bursting with flavor. It’s an easy and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you crave something deliciously crispy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Step 4: Spread mayonnaise generously over each chicken breast, then press each piece into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Step 5: Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Step 6: Cook for 12-15 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley to the breadcrumb mix.
- Use a mix of plain and panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- If you prefer a tangier crust, mix a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the mayonnaise before coating.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors right before eating.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore crispiness without drying it out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and to ensure the coating adheres properly. If using frozen chicken, fully thaw and pat dry before starting the recipe.
Can I bake this chicken instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience the delightful crunch and savory flavor of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. This recipe features juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy breadcrumb crust, enhanced by the richness of mayonnaise and seasoned with garlic and paprika. Cooked quickly in the air fryer, it delivers a golden-brown, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Coating
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to heat up while you prepare the chicken. This ensures a perfectly crispy crust when cooking.
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Pat each chicken breast dry thoroughly using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and crisps up the crust.
- Mix the coating: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the freshly grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Coat the chicken: Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast. Then, press each piece into the breadcrumb and parmesan mixture until fully coated on all sides.
- Arrange for cooking: Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the chicken halfway through the air frying process.
- You can substitute plain breadcrumbs with Italian-seasoned ones for a herby flavor boost.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Mayonnaise in the coating keeps the chicken moist and helps the crust stick better.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken, parmesan crusted chicken, crispy chicken, mayo coated chicken, easy chicken recipes, quick dinner ideas
