Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo: A Flavor-Packed Recipe for Busy Days

If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and quick dinner idea, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is about to become your new favorite recipe. With its crispy, golden crust and juicy, tender chicken breast, it’s a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines a few basic ingredients with the magic of the air fryer for a foolproof dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Minimal Ingredients: With just chicken breasts, mayo, Parmesan, and a few pantry staples, this dish is incredibly simple yet full of flavor.
Healthy and Crispy: The air fryer gives the chicken a crunchy crust without the need for deep frying, keeping it lighter and healthier.
Versatile: Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even an air fryer dessert for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, savory crust that makes this dish stand out.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and helps the Parmesan adhere to the chicken.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy crust.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work best for an extra crispy texture.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle savory flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall taste.
Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and helps the crust turn golden brown.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Ingredients:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
⅓ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
Mix the Coating: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until well blended.
Apply the Coating: Spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Add the Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the mayo mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

What to Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Fresh and Light Sides

Garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Steamed broccoli or asparagus
Lemon herb quinoa

2. Hearty Options

Garlic mashed potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes
Buttered noodles

3. Air Fryer Additions

Crispy Brussels sprouts
Sweet potato fries
Air fryer zucchini chips

Tips for Success

Use Evenly Sized Chicken Breasts: This ensures they cook evenly in the air fryer.
Don’t Skip the Mayo: The mayonnaise not only helps the Parmesan stick but also keeps the chicken moist and juicy.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve that crispy, golden crust.
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
Customize the Seasoning: Add Italian seasoning, paprika, or chili flakes to the mayo mixture for extra flavor.

Variations of Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Low-Carb Option

Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version.

2. Spicy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo mixture for a spicy kick.

3. Herb-Crusted Chicken

Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the breadcrumbs for an herby twist.

4. Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of panko.

Why Cook in an Air Fryer?

1. Faster Cooking Time

Air fryers cut down cooking time significantly compared to traditional ovens.

2. Healthier Cooking

The air fryer requires minimal oil, reducing the fat content while still delivering crispy results.

3. Versatility

From savory dishes like this chicken recipe to sweet treats like air fryer desserts, the possibilities are endless.

4. Easy Cleanup

Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.

FAQs About Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer.

2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute, though panko gives the crispiest texture.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken as Part of Your Meal Plan

This recipe is not only quick and delicious but also fits perfectly into meal prep routines. Cook a batch ahead of time and pair it with different sides throughout the week for variety. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful, even when reheated.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful meals without the hassle. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, easy to customize, and always a hit with the family. Whether you’re new to air fryer recipes or a seasoned pro, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

Ready to try it out? Fire up your air fryer and enjoy this cheesy, golden-crusted chicken tonight! Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite air fryer snacks or desserts for the ultimate meal experience.