Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re yearning for a crispy, golden chicken that bursts with flavor but doesn’t take up your whole evening (hi, busy friends!), Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a total game-changer. With a savory garlic mayo spread, a crunchy panko-Parmesan crust, and juicy chicken at the center, this dish delivers everything you crave—without the hassle of deep frying! It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel a little more special and is guaranteed to win over picky eaters and foodies alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, whether it’s extra crunch, vibrant flavor, or a pop of herby goodness. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need for your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

• Chicken breasts: Use large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results—cutting and pounding them ensures quick, even cooking.
• Mayonnaise: This keeps the chicken juicy and adds a creamy texture that helps the crust stick.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the chicken with a punch of robust flavor—don’t skip it!
• Panko bread crumbs: These super-crunchy Japanese-style bread crumbs are the secret to that irresistible, crispy exterior.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melds into the crust and adds a rich, nutty flavor that truly makes this recipe shine.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the coating and the chicken itself—don’t be shy, as these elevate all the other flavors.
• Olive oil spray: Just a quick mist ensures perfect browning and prevents sticking; avoid aerosol sprays like PAM to protect your air fryer basket.
• Fresh parsley: A finishing touch of finely chopped parsley brings freshness and brightens up the final plate.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 390 degrees F. This ensures the basket is hot and ready, so your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes out extra crispy and cooks evenly right from the beginning.

Step 2: Prep and Pound the Chicken

Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Placing each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap, use a meat tenderizer (or even a rolling pin!) to gently pound them until they’re thin and even. This helps your chicken cook quickly and stay juicy—plus, every bite will have the perfect ratio of crust to meat.

Step 3: Spread the Garlic Mayo

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and minced garlic until smooth and fragrant. Generously spread this mixture all over each piece of chicken. This step adds a silky layer of flavor and helps the crust adhere beautifully for that signature Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken coating.

Step 4: Dredge in Panko-Parmesan Coating

Mix the Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper together in a shallow bowl. Press each mayo-coated chicken breast into the crumb mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly covered. A little pressure here is key—this helps the crispy, cheesy coating stick for maximum crunch!

Step 5: Prep the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and encourage even browning. Remember, don’t use PAM or similar sprays—they can damage some baskets over time. A quick mist of plain olive oil does the trick!

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

Arrange the chicken in the basket in a single layer, giving each piece a bit of space. Cook for 8 minutes, then carefully flip each piece with tongs. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding, which keeps the coating perfectly crisp.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken and serve it up immediately while it’s at peak crispiness. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for color, flavor, and that final touch of glam!

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

The perfect finishing touch for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan and a scatter of vibrant, finely chopped parsley. Not only does this add flavor and freshness, but it also gives your plate that irresistible pop of color every great dish deserves.

Side Dishes

This crispy chicken pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Try it with buttery mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette, or some lemony roasted veggies. If you want to keep things simple, a side of steamed broccoli or garlic green beans does the trick—letting the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken shine as the main star.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by slicing the chicken on the diagonal and fanning the pieces on a pretty platter. Serve over a bed of peppery arugula, atop creamy risotto, or tuck slices into a fresh ciabatta roll with a drizzle of pesto. However you serve it, this dish always manages to look as good as it tastes!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re that good), let the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken cool to room temperature first. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and always keep it separate from any sauces or salads to preserve that delicious crispiness.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this chicken for a quick future meal! Once cooled, arrange the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy again, they’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months without losing flavor or that crave-worthy crunch.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your chicken in the air fryer itself at 370 degrees F for 4-6 minutes, or until hot and crispy again. This helps regain all that original crunch. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the crust soggy—nobody wants that!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They tend to be even juicier, but just make sure to pound them to an even thickness for best results.

Is it necessary to use mayonnaise in the coating?

The mayonnaise not only keeps the chicken super moist, but also helps the crust cling—and once air fried, you won’t taste it at all. If you prefer, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the flavor and crust will change slightly.

Why shouldn’t I use aerosol sprays like PAM in my air fryer?

Many air fryer manufacturers warn against using aerosol sprays because the additives can damage the nonstick coating over time. Stick with a refillable oil sprayer or a light brush of olive oil for a safe, even coating.

Can I make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular Panko bread crumbs for a gluten-free version. Most supermarkets carry gluten-free Panko, and the result is equally crispy and delicious.

What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer if you have one—the chicken is safely cooked when it reaches 165 degrees F in the thickest part. The crust should be golden brown and the juices should run clear. Trust your senses and don’t overcook for the juiciest results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s effortless, impressive, and downright delicious, you have to try Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken! With its irresistible crunch and bold flavors, it has all the makings of a new family favorite. Go ahead—make it tonight, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

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