If you’re craving crispy, golden chicken without the hassle and mess of deep-frying, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is your new go-to recipe. This dish combines the irresistible crunch of a parmesan crust with the juicy tenderness of chicken breasts, all cooked quickly and healthfully in an air fryer. The secret ingredient? A simple spread of mayonnaise that locks in moisture and helps the parmesan coating stick perfectly.
In this article, we’ll explore why this recipe is a game changer, provide step-by-step instructions, and share tips to elevate your air fryer chicken game.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Crispy Crust Without Deep Frying: The air fryer crisps the parmesan crust beautifully using hot circulating air, giving you all the crunch with less oil.
- Moist and Tender Chicken: The mayo acts as a binder and moisture lock, keeping chicken juicy on the inside while the crust crisps up outside.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Perfectly Seasoned: The parmesan adds a nutty, salty punch, enhanced by garlic powder and Italian herbs.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Uses little to no added oil, making it a lighter alternative to traditional fried chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild smokiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray (optional, for extra crispiness)
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This ensures the mayo and parmesan adhere better.
Step 2: Coat with Mayo
Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on each chicken breast. The mayo is essential—it keeps the chicken moist and helps the crust stick.
Step 3: Mix the Parmesan Coating
In a shallow dish, combine grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Step 4: Crust the Chicken
Press each mayo-coated chicken breast firmly into the parmesan mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Gently press the coating so it sticks well.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Place the crusted chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Optionally, spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray for extra golden crispiness.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh garden salad and a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles for comfort food vibes.
- Top with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken
- Uniform Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece enough space in the air fryer basket for air circulation to get that crispy crust.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan cheese works best for flavor and texture.
- Customize the Seasoning: Add cayenne pepper for heat or fresh herbs like parsley for brightness.
Why Use Mayonnaise?
Mayonnaise might seem unusual, but it’s a fantastic ingredient for air fryer chicken. The fat content helps keep the chicken juicy, prevents drying, and acts as an excellent binder for the cheese crust. Plus, it adds a subtle tang that complements the parmesan.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Parmesan Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the parmesan mix.
- Herbed Mayo Crust: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the mayo before coating.
- Cheese Blend: Use a combination of parmesan, pecorino romano, and mozzarella for a richer crust.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds mixed with parmesan instead of breadcrumbs.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of crispy textures and juicy flavors—all with less oil and less mess. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight meal or impressing family and friends, this recipe is sure to be a winner.
Try it tonight and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess in every bite!