If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and ready in a flash, you’re absolutely going to adore this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. Imagine tender chicken breasts slathered in a creamy mayonnaise base, then coated in a heavenly mix of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, all cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, giving you that classic fried texture without the extra oil or mess. It’s a quick, delicious meal that feels like a celebration on your plate every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is easier than you might think. Each ingredient is simple but essential, working together to create a crispy crust, juicy inside, and a flavor profile that’s rich and irresistible.
- 2 Large Chicken Breasts: The star of the dish, making sure you have thick pieces for juicy, satisfying bites.
- 1 cup Parmesan shredded: Adds a savory, nutty kick and helps form that mouthwatering crust.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Brings amazing crunch and a light texture to the coating.
- 1 cup real mayonnaise: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the coating stick perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the cheese and chicken perfectly.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding each chicken breast with a meat hammer until they’re an even thickness. This step is crucial because it ensures the chicken cooks uniformly in the air fryer, giving you tender pieces with no dry edges.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
Combine the shredded Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. The blend of these two gives you the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and crispiness that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 3: Apply the Mayonnaise and Garlic
Spread the real mayonnaise evenly over each chicken breast, then sprinkle garlic powder on top. The mayonnaise not only flavors the chicken but also acts like a glue to help the Parmesan and panko stick nicely.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Press each mayo-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan and panko mixture, ensuring every inch is covered. Don’t be shy here — a thick, even coating is what gives you that unbeatable crunch.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer if necessary, then place the coated chicken breasts inside. Set the timer for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through if needed, until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The air fryer is a game-changer here—it crisps up the coating without any extra oil, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil elevates the presentation while adding a pop of fresh, herbal flavor that refreshes your palate between bites.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, garlic roasted vegetables, or even a serving of creamy mashed potatoes. The crunchy, cheesy crust is balanced perfectly by lighter and creamier sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken into strips and serve with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping. It also makes a fantastic protein-packed top layer for a Caesar salad or even stuffed inside a crusty sandwich roll for a handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The key is to cool the chicken completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy crust, pop the chicken in your air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through. This reheating method keeps the coating crisp, which a microwave just can’t achieve.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well, just keep an eye on cooking time since thighs are usually a bit smaller and might cook faster.
Is mayonnaise really necessary?
Mayonnaise is key here because it locks in moisture and helps the Parmesan and panko stick. If you’re not a fan, plain Greek yogurt can be a substitute but might slightly change the flavor.
Can I add herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture?
Yes! Feel free to mix in dried oregano, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra zest. This recipe is flexible and welcomes your personal touch.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake this chicken in the oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the safest bet—the internal temperature should hit 165°F. This guarantees juiciness and safety without drying out the chicken.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is going to become one of those go-to meals you make again and again. It’s simple, fuss-free, and unbelievably tasty, proving that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. So grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a crunchy, cheesy masterpiece that feels like a treat every time.
Print
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful chicken breast coated in a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthier, oven-baked style chicken without the oil or mess.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
Coating
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Other
- 1 cup real mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pound each chicken breast with a meat hammer until the thickness is even, ensuring even cooking and a tender texture.
- Mix coating ingredients: In a bowl, combine the shredded Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, and garlic powder to create the flavorful crust mixture.
- Coat chicken: Spread mayonnaise evenly over each chicken breast, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan and panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere well.
- Preheat air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Cook chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 13-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain juices before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can add herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Use real mayonnaise as it helps the crust stick and browns nicely in the air fryer.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture.
