Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

When it comes to quick, flavorful, and family-friendly dinners, few recipes can rival the magic of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cheesy, garlicky flavor, this dish transforms simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort.

The secret ingredient? Mayonnaise. While it might sound surprising, mayo locks in moisture, helps the coating stick, and creates a golden crust without needing excessive oil. Combined with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, it delivers a crunchy exterior that’s lighter than traditional frying but every bit as satisfying. Best of all, the air fryer makes the process quicker and healthier than pan-frying or oven-baking.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your dinner rotation and exactly how to make it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy without the grease: Thanks to the air fryer, you get fried-chicken texture with just a fraction of the oil.
  • Juicy and flavorful: The mayo coating seals in moisture, keeping the chicken tender.
  • Easy ingredients: Uses pantry staples like Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and mayo.
  • Quick cook time: Ready in less than 30 minutes.
  • Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy crust.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For 4 servings:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated works best)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch, or Italian seasoned for flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

  • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  • If they are very thick, slice them in half horizontally or pound them to an even 1-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking.
  • Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Make the Coating

  • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. Mix well.
  • In another bowl, stir together Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Chicken

  • Brush each chicken breast with the mayo mixture, spreading evenly over both sides.
  • Press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, coating generously.
  • Lightly spray both sides with cooking oil spray for extra crispiness.

4. Air Fry

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  • Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding (work in batches if needed).
  • Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.

5. Serve

  • Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for brightness.

Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken

  • Don’t skip preheating the air fryer. It ensures the crust gets crispy from the start.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan. It melts and crisps better than pre-shredded varieties.
  • Pound chicken evenly. Thinner chicken cooks faster and prevents dry spots.
  • Spray with oil. A light mist helps the coating crisp without becoming greasy.
  • Avoid overcrowding. Air circulation is key for even browning.

Serving Ideas

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

  • Classic comfort: Mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
  • Light and fresh: A crisp Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
  • Italian twist: Serve over pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce.
  • Low-carb option: Pair with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

For an elegant touch, drizzle a little balsamic glaze or serve with garlic butter dipping sauce.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
  • Herb-Crusted: Mix fresh parsley, basil, or thyme into the mayo before spreading.
  • Cheese Lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or provolone into the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or gluten-free panko.
  • Low-Fat: Use light mayonnaise and reduce the Parmesan slightly.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap cooked chicken tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat in air fryer: 350°F for 5–7 minutes, until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~410
  • Protein: 36g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 620mg

(Values vary depending on mayonnaise and cheese used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy. Adjust cook time to 14–16 minutes depending on thickness.

Do I need to flip the chicken?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures even browning and crispiness.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20–25 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway. Use the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crunch.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes—assemble the coated chicken up to 12 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to air fry.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe delivers on three key promises: flavor, texture, and ease. The mayo not only helps the breadcrumbs and Parmesan adhere but also locks in moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out. The air fryer ensures the crust becomes golden and crunchy without needing deep frying. With just a few simple steps, you create a meal that feels indulgent yet is healthier and faster than traditional methods.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a weekend dinner yet simple enough for weeknights. The mayo trick makes this recipe nearly foolproof, and the air fryer guarantees consistent results every time.

Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish with fresh herbs, and watch it disappear from the table. Whether you’re cooking for kids, guests, or just yourself, this dish is sure to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

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