This crispy air fryer parmesan chicken is super easy to make and oh-so-tasty! It’s coated in a crunchy layer of parmesan cheese and a touch of mayo—yum!
I love how quick it cooks and the flavor packs a punch. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a yummy dinner that feels special without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is the secret here for crispiness and moisture. If you prefer a lighter option, try plain Greek yogurt—it works surprisingly well! Or use avocado mayo for a twist.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a lovely, salty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can be used for a bolder taste. Just remember it’s saltier, so you might want to reduce the added salt.
Panko breadcrumbs: These create a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they may not be as crispy. You can also make your own by toasting and crushing stale bread.
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crunch, start by making sure the chicken is dry before applying the mayo. This helps the coating adhere better. Here’s how to maximize crispiness:
- Use a light layer of mayo—too much can make it soggy.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken; this helps it stick during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if necessary to allow air to circulate.
- Lightly spray the coating with oil. This helps it crisp up in the air fryer.
Following these tips will help you get that desired crispiness every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 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 olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking. After that, let it cool for a few minutes, and you’re ready to serve it. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to whip this up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If the chicken breasts are quite thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets or gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This makes sure they cook evenly.
2. Make the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Apply Mayo Coating
Take your mayonnaise and spread a thin, even layer on both sides of each chicken breast. This mayo coating not only helps the breading stick but also keeps the chicken nice and moist while cooking.
4. Coat the Chicken
Next, press each mayo-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides get a good coating. Firmly press so the breadcrumbs adhere well.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer
Now set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This step is important for achieving that crispy texture!
6. Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly spray the 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. Give the tops a light spray of cooking spray too for extra crispiness.
7. Cook
Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes, then carefully flip them over. Spray the other side with more cooking spray and air fry for another 6-8 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown, crispy, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 3-5 minutes before slicing it. Serve your crispy, cheesy, and juicy Parmesan mayo chicken hot with your favorite sides or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!
FAQs about Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide even more juiciness. Just be aware that they might require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt works well as a mayonnaise substitute. You could also use avocado mayo for a different flavor. Both options will keep the chicken moist and help the coating adhere.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
