Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and easy meal that’s both delicious and healthy? This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a flavorful, crispy chicken dish that will impress your family or guests. The air fryer ensures the chicken is tender on the inside and beautifully golden on the outside, all while using less oil than traditional frying methods. Keep reading for the full recipe and step-by-step guide to make this tasty dish tonight!

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What is “Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo”?

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a simple yet flavorful dish where chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of mayo, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, then cooked to crispy perfection in an air fryer. The mayo helps the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, adding moisture and richness, while the air fryer gives it that desired crunchy texture without the need for deep frying. It’s a versatile dish that’s great for a family dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

To make this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are common pantry staples, so you might already have many of them at home!

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Try to use similar-sized chicken breasts for even cooking.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – This adds moisture to the chicken and helps the crust adhere.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor, but pre-grated works too.
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs – For that extra crunch. Regular breadcrumbs also work.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a bit of savory, aromatic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and adds depth to the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a bit of color and mild flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Cooking spray – To prevent sticking and to help the crust crisp up in the air fryer.

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is pretty straightforward, there are some great substitutions and variations to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
• Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. It will still add moisture and help the crust adhere.
• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs like Italian seasoning, parsley, or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture to enhance the flavor.
• Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even cheddar for a different twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and some ideas for variations, let’s get cooking! The air fryer makes the cooking process a breeze, so you can have dinner on the table in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping the chicken breasts. If the chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Make the Parmesan-Mayo Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until you have a smooth, well-mixed paste. This mixture will serve as the coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Using a spoon or brush, generously coat each chicken breast with the Parmesan-mayo mixture. Make sure to cover both sides of the chicken evenly for the best results.

Step 4: Add the Breadcrumbs

Once the chicken is coated with the mayo mixture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top. Press the breadcrumbs gently into the chicken to ensure they stick. You can do this on just one side for a half-crusted chicken or both sides for extra crunch.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy crust.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Step 7: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that you can easily avoid for the best results:

1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer: If you place too many chicken breasts in the air fryer at once, they won’t cook evenly, and the crust won’t crisp up properly. Cook in batches if needed.
2. Skipping Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately and gives you that nice crispy texture.
3. Not Pounding the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, some parts will cook faster than others. This can result in dry or undercooked chicken. Pounding to an even thickness ensures consistent cooking.
4. Using Too Much Mayo: While mayo is essential for the recipe, using too much can make the chicken greasy. Stick to the recommended amount for the best balance of moisture and crunch.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present your dish can elevate the experience of eating it! Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo:

• Slice It Thin: Slice the chicken into thin strips and fan them out on the plate for an elegant presentation.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil over the chicken can add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the rich, savory chicken.
• Pair with Vegetables: Serve the chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

This dish can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. For a family dinner, you can serve the chicken alongside mashed potatoes, pasta, or a side of steamed veggies. If you're serving it for a more casual meal, slice it up and serve in sandwiches or wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light mayo or aioli. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of greens for a satisfying salad.

Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Presentation is key to making your dish stand out! Here are a few ideas to make your meal visually appealing:

• Rustic Platter: Serve the chicken on a wooden or ceramic platter, surrounded by lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh herbs.
• Individual Plates: Plate each chicken breast on a large plate with colorful vegetables and a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Family-Style: Serve the chicken on a large tray, garnished with parsley and Parmesan shavings, and let everyone help themselves.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to help ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than the pre-grated variety.
• Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked.
• Flip Carefully: When flipping the chicken in the air fryer, use a spatula to avoid knocking off the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed before starting the recipe.

Q: Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?
A: Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain some of the crispiness.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the mayo-Parmesan mixture a few hours in advance. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The air fryer makes cooking faster and healthier, while still giving you that crave-worthy crispy crust. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today and enjoy a perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken dish that everyone will love!

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