This crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken is a tasty treat! Coated in a flavorful mix of Parmesan cheese and mayo, it gets beautifully crunchy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
Seriously, who doesn’t love easy, crispy chicken? I whip this up for dinner when I want something quick and oh-so-delicious. Serve it with a side salad, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a nice, tender texture. However, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even pounded thin turkey breasts if preferred.
Mayonnaise: Mayo acts as the base here, keeping the chicken moist and helping the Parmesan stick. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds that creaminess while cutting some calories.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor and crispiness. You can swap it for Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or a dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan alternative.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and onion powder are key to flavor. If you’re out, minced fresh garlic and chopped onions can work in a pinch. Just use them sparingly for a fresh twist.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crisp on your chicken can be a bit tricky. Here’s how to ensure it turns out just right:
- Start by preheating the air fryer. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get crispy.
- Slicing the chicken into thinner cutlets allows for faster cooking and ensures they don’t dry out.
- Make sure to coat the chicken well with the mayo mixture before dredging it in Parmesan. This creates that yummy crust as it cooks.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary; airflow is key for that crispiness.
With these tips, your chicken will be beautifully crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal!
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 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 recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer, totaling around 25-30 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is important as it helps the chicken cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally. This creates thinner cutlets which will cook more evenly and quickly. It’ll also help them stay juicy!
3. Make the Mayo Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix the mayonnaise with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until you have a smooth mixture. This will be the flavorful coating for your chicken.
4. Prepare the Parmesan Coating:
In another shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. This cheese coating will give your chicken that delicious cheesy crunch!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Take one chicken cutlet and coat it evenly on both sides with the mayo mixture. Then, dredge the coated chicken in the Parmesan cheese mixture, pressing gently so the cheese sticks nicely to the chicken.
6. Air Fry the Chicken:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken cutlets in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overlap them.
7. Cook to Perfection:
Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for extra juiciness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy Parmesan chicken hot, optionally with a wedge of lemon or a side salad for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and can still be cooked in the air fryer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your thighs are thicker, ensuring they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any breadcrumbs. Just make sure to use a gluten-free mayonnaise and check the Parmesan cheese for any additives.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain the crispiness—around 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes should do the trick!
Can I Use Other Cheese in This Recipe?
Definitely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or cheddar for a bolder taste. Just make sure they are finely grated to adhere well!
