This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken is a tasty treasure! With a crunchy coating of parmesan and just a touch of mayo, it’s both easy to make and super satisfying.
Who knew that one little layer of mayo could create such magic? I love whipping this up when I’m craving something crispy without the fuss of frying. It’s a winner! 🍗🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs, which add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo helps keep the chicken moist and adds a nice sheen. If you’re looking for lighter options, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo substitute. Both can add a different but tasty twist!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works too in a pinch. For a stronger taste, use Pecorino Romano. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a super crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but your chicken won’t be as crunchy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great substitute here!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Chicken in the Air Fryer?
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, follow these key steps:
- Dry the Chicken: Always pat your chicken dry to remove excess moisture. This helps the mayo and crumbs stick better.
- Coat Evenly: Apply the mayo in a thin, even layer so the coating adheres nicely. Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Air fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can prevent airflow, leading to less crispy results.
- Spray for Crispiness: A light spray of cooking oil before air frying enhances crunchiness. Just a bit goes a long way!
Following these tips will help you enjoy perfectly crispy and delicious chicken every time!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds), cut into strips or pounded thin
For The Coating:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil spray)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from start to finish for a delightful dinner that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
First things first! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to get it nice and hot. This step is key for a crispy finish!
2. Prepare the Coating Mix:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. This blend will create a fantastic, flavorful crust!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Now, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise evenly over each chicken piece. This not only helps the coating stick but keeps the chicken moist and tender.
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Next, take each mayo-coated chicken piece and dredge it in the Parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. You’re going to love that crunchy texture!
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken pieces inside in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. If necessary, cook in batches for the best results.
6. Add a Final Spray:
For an extra crispy crust, give the tops of the coated chicken a light spray with cooking spray before cooking.
7. Air Fry to Perfection:
Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to flip each piece halfway through cooking. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
8. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken comes out of the air fryer, let it rest for about 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your crispy chicken hot, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken with mayo!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer than chicken breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you want to skip the mayo, you can use Greek yogurt or even mustard for a tangy flavor. Both options will help the coating stick while keeping the chicken moist! For a vegan option, try using avocado, vegan mayo, or a combination of silken tofu blended until smooth.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help retain its crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just substitute the regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt!
