This crispy air fryer parmesan chicken is super easy to make! The secret is a simple mayo crust that keeps the chicken juicy and adds a tasty crunch. Yum!
You’ll love how quick it is to whip this up on a busy weeknight. Pair it with some veggies or a salad, and you’ve got a delicious meal in no time. Who knew cooking could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be an excellent substitute. Just watch the cooking time as they may take a bit longer!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise gives a creamy texture and flavor, but light mayo works if you’re watching calories. If you’d like a different flavor, try using Greek yogurt or a homemade herb-infused mayo for an interesting twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice crunch and cheesy flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can be used instead. Just remember to adjust the salt, as Pecorino can be saltier.
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give great flavor to the chicken. You can swap smoked paprika for regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste, or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting that crispy texture from your air fryer is all about the coating and cooking method. Here’s how to guarantee crispy perfection:
- Ensure you coat the chicken evenly with the mayo mixture, so the Parmesan sticks well.
- Press the chicken firmly into the Parmesan mix to form a thick crust. It’s worth taking the time to make sure it’s well-coated.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer without overlapping. This helps air circulation, leading to a crispier finish.
- Flipping halfway through the cooking time is crucial for even crispness on both sides. Use tongs for a quick turn!
- If you want extra crunch, lightly spray the coated chicken with olive oil before air frying. Just a light mist will do!
With these tips, your air fryer chicken will come out golden brown and crispy every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Easy Mayo Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
- Mayo Mixture:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Crust:
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of cooking in the air fryer. Total time is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for dinner any night of the week!
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 step is important for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the chicken breasts dry. If they’re quite thick, you may want to slice each breast in half horizontally. This helps them cook quickly and evenly, giving you tender, juicy chicken every time!
3. Make the Mayo Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. This mayo mix is what will keep your chicken juicy and give it a fantastic flavor!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Generously spread the mayo mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat both sides evenly. This step is what creates that delicious crust when cooked.
5. Prepare the Parmesan Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix the grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the crunchy topping that makes this chicken so irresistible!
6. Create a Crispy Crust:
Press each mayo-coated chicken piece into the Parmesan mixture. Make sure to coat both sides nicely so you get that that delicious crispy layer all around your chicken.
7. Air Fry the Chicken:
Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them cook evenly and get that perfect crunch!
8. Cook to Perfection:
Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are golden and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before removing them from the air fryer.
9. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in, giving you super tender chicken!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the crispy chicken warm with your favorite sides like a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes. Dig in and enjoy a delightful, savory meal that’s sure to impress!
Now you’re ready to enjoy a juicy, crispy, and flavorful chicken dinner with the convenience of your air fryer and that mouthwatering cheesy mayo crust!
FAQ for Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Easy Mayo Crust
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you even juicier results. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are done.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for alternatives, Greek yogurt works great for a tangy twist and adds creaminess. You can also make a simple homemade mayo with egg and oil or try an avocado mash for a healthier twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy when reheating, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken with the mayo and Parmesan mix a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
