Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

If you’re craving a deliciously crispy yet juicy chicken that’s ready in a flash, the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is your new go-to recipe. This dish combines the creamy tang of mayo with the sharp, salty crunch of parmesan to create a perfectly golden crust that seals in moisture. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making weeknight dinners more exciting without a ton of effort or mess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together to create a gourmet-tasting meal.
• Quick Cooking Time: Thanks to the air fryer, dinner is ready faster than traditional baking or frying methods.
• Deliciously Crispy: The parmesan crust crisps up beautifully for a satisfying texture every bite.
• Moist and Tender Inside: Mayo keeps the chicken juicy without overwhelming the flavors.
• Easy Cleanup: No messy oil splatters or deep-frying involved, just simple cleanup after cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this recipe right is all about using a few key ingredients that pack flavor and texture into every bite. Each element has a role—from richness and moisture to seasoning and crunch.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless, skinless for quick cooking and even coating.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as a flavorful binder and helps keep the chicken juicy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides that signature sharp, nutty crust that crisps up beautifully.
• Garlic powder: Adds subtle depth of savory flavor.
• Paprika: Offers a mild smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
• Salt and pepper: Essentials to brighten and balance all flavors.
• Italian herbs blend: Optional, but a great way to boost aroma and taste with herbs like oregano and basil.
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray: For an extra crispy finish without extra calories.

Variations for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Feel free to tweak ingredients and spices to fit your dietary needs or personal taste, making each version uniquely yours.

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the parmesan mixture for heat.
• Herb-forward: Mix in fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for a fresh flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Swap parmesan for a gluten-free cheese alternative and ensure mayo is gluten-free.
• Cheese variety: Experiment with pecorino romano or asiago for a different cheese bite.
• Low-fat substitute: Use light mayo or Greek yogurt to reduce calories but maintain creaminess.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. Season both sides lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for that perfect base layer of flavor.

Step 2: Coat with Mayonnaise

Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over each chicken piece. Mayo acts as both a flavor enhancer and moisture lock, ensuring the chicken stays tender inside while crisping on the outside.

Step 3: Create the Parmesan Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, and optional Italian herbs. Mix everything together, making sure the spices are well distributed for an even, flavorful crust.

Step 4: Press Chicken into Parmesan Mix

Firmly press each mayo-coated chicken piece into the parmesan mixture, making sure to cover all sides evenly. The coating is what’ll give you that unbeatable crunch and cheesy flavor.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and achieve a golden crust.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Spray lightly with cooking spray to aid browning, then cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Let it Rest

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps juices locked in and makes every bite juicy and tender.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

• Use room temperature chicken: It cooks more evenly and reduces drying out.
• Pat chicken dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the coating sticks well and crisps perfectly.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between pieces to circulate hot air and achieve the best crunch.
• Light spray of oil: Enhances color and crispness without excess grease.
• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the chicken juicy.
• Customize the parmesan mix: Experiment with different cheeses or spices for a personalized twist.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled over the chicken adds a pop of color and brightness, balancing the rich, cheesy crust with herbal freshness.

Side Dishes

This crispy chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans, garlic roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and serving it atop a bed of pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs, or stuff it into a crusty sandwich with lettuce and tomato for an elevated twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping the crust as crisp as possible by separating pieces with parchment paper.

Freezing

Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in foil or parchment, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without drying the chicken out, avoiding microwave reheating which can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be even juicier with the mayo and parmesan coating.

Is mayonnaise necessary in this recipe?

Yes, mayo provides moisture and helps the parmesan crust stick and brown perfectly, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, parmesan is naturally gluten-free, just ensure your mayo and any seasonings you use don’t contain gluten ingredients.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake this chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to crisp both sides.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Final Thoughts

If you want a quick, flavorful chicken dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple, the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo should be a regular in your arsenal. It’s crispy, juicy, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight recipe!

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