Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the type of dish that makes your taste buds tingle with anticipation. The moment you take that first bite, the crispy, cheesy crust gives way to juicy chicken, creating a flavor explosion that can only be described as heavenly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone wandering in, wondering what deliciousness is cooking.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a Friday night, and after a long week of work and chaos, I wanted something quick yet satisfying. As the chicken sizzled in the air fryer, I could hardly contain my excitement—what if this would become our new favorite? Spoiler alert: it did! Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at gatherings, this recipe promises to deliver an incredible flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a breeze to prepare and clean up afterward.
- The flavors are rich and savory, making every bite a delight.
- The golden crust makes it visually stunning, perfect for dinner parties or casual meals alike.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides or salads for any occasion.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo works best for a rich flavor and helps the coating stick beautifully.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated parmesan for optimal richness and texture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give your chicken that extra crunch! Look for plain panko for maximum versatility.
Garlic Powder: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your chicken gets that perfect golden crust!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the boneless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the mayo adhere better later on.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture will act as both glue and flavor enhancer.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken and generously coat it with the mayo mixture. Then dip each piece into panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Step 5: Arrange in Air Fryer
Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; you want them to crisp up nicely.
Step 6: Cook to Perfection
Air fry for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C)). Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining mayo mixture if desired for an extra touch of deliciousness! Enjoy this flavorful dish alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
And there you have it—Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo that not only looks fantastic but tastes divine too!
You Must Know
- This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo offers a delightful crunch and moist chicken that’s hard to resist.
- It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests.
- The mayo keeps the chicken juicy, while the parmesan adds a savory twist that will leave everyone wanting more.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Coat the chicken in mayo first, then roll it in parmesan and spices. Once coated, place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook until golden brown and crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the parmesan for cheddar or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. You can also toss in some garlic powder or paprika for a kick that will make your taste buds dance!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it back into the air fryer for about 5 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with mayo to achieve that perfect crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each piece space to cook evenly and get crispy.
I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo for my friends. Their faces lit up with joy, and one declared it a “culinary masterpiece.” Who knew mayo could be so magic?
FAQs
What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a delicious dish that combines juicy chicken breasts, creamy mayonnaise, and a crunchy parmesan crust. This recipe uses the air fryer to create a healthier version of fried chicken, making it crispy on the outside while keeping the meat tender and moist inside. With minimal oil and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
How do I make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
To make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, start by preheating your air fryer. Coat chicken breasts in mayonnaise, then dredge them in a mixture of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket and cook until golden brown and cooked through. This process ensures that you achieve that perfect crunch without deep frying.
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes! While parmesan cheese adds a distinct flavor to Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Each type will bring its unique taste and texture to the dish. Just remember to adjust cooking times if using cheeses that melt quickly to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo healthy?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is generally healthier than traditional fried chicken because it uses significantly less oil. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly while providing a crispy texture without excess fat. Additionally, using mayonnaise can help keep the chicken moist while adding flavor. However, consider portion sizes and overall dietary needs when enjoying this dish as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is an easy-to-make dish that brings together flavors and textures in a delightful way. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version of fried chicken without sacrificing taste or crunch. Remember to coat your chicken well and monitor cooking times for best results. This recipe not only simplifies meal preparation but also pleases the whole family with its deliciousness.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a mouthwatering dish that elevates simple chicken breasts into a cheesy, crispy delight. Coated in a rich mayonnaise mixture and topped with panko breadcrumbs, this recipe ensures a flavorful crunch in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, it offers a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy the juicy tenderness of chicken with a golden crust that will have everyone coming back for more!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels for better mayo adherence.
- In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Generously coat each chicken breast with the mayo mixture, then dip into panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Arrange the coated chicken in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute parmesan with cheddar or mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme. Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for optimal crispiness.