Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a quick, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special meal. The crispy Parmesan coating, paired with the creamy garlic mayonnaise, gives this chicken an irresistible flavor. Cooking it in the air fryer makes it healthier while still delivering that golden, crispy texture everyone loves. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner option or something to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to hit the mark!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The garlic mayonnaise acts as a rich, flavorful base, while the Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture adds a crunchy, cheesy coating to the chicken. This easy-to-make recipe requires minimal preparation and is cooked to perfection in the air fryer, making it a hassle-free dinner solution.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo combines the best of both worlds: crispy and crunchy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside. The addition of garlic mayonnaise gives the chicken an extra layer of flavor that is both savory and creamy. The air fryer ensures a quick cooking time, allowing you to prepare this meal in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families or individuals who crave a delicious meal without a lot of effort.

It’s also a versatile recipe. You can serve this chicken with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a more formal occasion. Additionally, it’s an easy recipe to make in large batches if you’re cooking for a crowd!

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Ingredients

For the Garlic Mayonnaise:

• Mayonnaise
• Minced garlic cloves
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the Parmesan Coating:

• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally to make 4 fillets)
• Fresh oregano or parsley leaves for garnish

Variations

While this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is already fantastic, here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the garlic mayonnaise or the Parmesan coating for a spicy version of this dish.
• Different Herbs: Instead of oregano or parsley, try using fresh thyme, basil, or rosemary to garnish the chicken and give it a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Add Cheese: For an extra cheesy touch, mix some mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the Parmesan coating to make the crust even more gooey and delicious.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 fillets. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer. Season each fillet with a pinch of salt to taste.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Mayonnaise

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Coating

In a shallow dish, combine the fresh grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Mix them together until well blended.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Spread a generous amount of the garlic mayonnaise over each chicken fillet. Then, dip the chicken fillets into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat each side evenly with the Parmesan and panko mixture.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and garnish with fresh oregano or parsley leaves. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the basket. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best results. Pre-grated cheese may not melt or coat the chicken as well.
• Check the chicken’s internal temperature: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Spray the chicken with oil: Lightly spray the coated chicken fillets with cooking spray before air frying to help them crisp up nicely.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo can be served in a variety of ways:

• With pasta: Serve the chicken on top of spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice for a delicious, complete meal.
• On a salad: Slice the chicken and add it to a fresh salad for a lighter, healthier option.
• With roasted vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
• With mashed potatoes: For a more hearty option, serve the chicken alongside creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the leftover chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken after it has cooled. Place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the air fryer or oven for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is heated through and the crust is crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Keep in mind that thighs may take slightly longer to cook, so check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.

2. Can I make this recipe without mayo?

While mayo adds creaminess and flavor, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different texture and taste.

3. Can I bake this chicken instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the crust is golden brown.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

5. How do I prevent the crust from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the garlic mayonnaise and the Parmesan-panko mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken gently to ensure they stick well before air frying.

6. Can I add more seasonings to the crust?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs to the Parmesan-panko coating for added flavor.

7. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise?

Yes, store-bought mayonnaise works just fine for this recipe. However, homemade mayonnaise can add an extra layer of flavor if you prefer.

8. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.

9. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best results for a crisp and flavorful crust, but pre-grated Parmesan will work in a pinch.

10. Can I serve this chicken with a dipping sauce?

Yes! You can serve the chicken with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli for dipping.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a crispy, flavorful meal. The combination of garlic mayonnaise and Parmesan breadcrumbs creates a crunchy, cheesy coating that pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken. Whether you serve it with pasta, salad, or vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Simple to make, customizable, and full of flavor, it’s a must-try for any chicken lover!

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