Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and crispy chicken recipe, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the perfect choice! By using mayonnaise, the chicken stays incredibly juicy and tender, while the Parmesan crust adds a delightful crunch. The air fryer makes this dish even better by giving the chicken a crispy coating without the need for excessive oil. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even as a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Keep reading for the full recipe, cooking tips, and variations to make this crispy Parmesan chicken a hit at your dinner table!

this Recipe

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What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a dish where boneless chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then air-fried to crispy, golden perfection. The mayonnaise not only helps the Parmesan adhere to the chicken, but also keeps the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks. The result is a tender, juicy chicken breast with a crispy, cheesy crust that’s perfect for any meal.

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Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

To make this crispy and flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly versatile! Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Use Greek yogurt: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten up the recipe while still keeping the chicken moist.
• Add more cheese: Try adding a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or sharp cheddar to the Parmesan for a cheesier crust.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of panko to keep the dish gluten-free.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
• Low-carb option: Skip the breadcrumbs entirely and just use Parmesan and seasoning for a keto-friendly version.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the mayo mixture adhere better to the chicken and prevents excess moisture during cooking.
• Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for added flavor.

1. Mix the Mayo and Parmesan Coating:

• In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.

1. Coat the Chicken:

• Using a spoon or spatula, spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Ensure a thick and even layer so that the chicken gets a nice crust.
• If you’re using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the mayo-coated chicken breasts and gently press them in to help them stick.

1. Air Fry the Chicken:

• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

1. Check for Doneness:

• The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the chicken isn't golden and crispy by the end of cooking, you can air fry it for an additional 2-3 minutes until the crust is perfectly browned.

1. Serve:

• Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

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How to Cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps for making this delicious and crispy chicken:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
3. Mix the mayo, Parmesan, and seasonings to create the coating.
4. Coat the chicken with the mayo mixture, then sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired.
5. Air fry the chicken for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) and let the chicken rest before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the air fryer: Make sure to leave enough space between each chicken breast in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will prevent the chicken from getting crispy, as air needs to circulate around each piece.
• Not patting the chicken dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken helps the mayo mixture stick better and ensures a crispier finish.
• Using too much mayonnaise: While the mayo keeps the chicken juicy, using too much can make the coating too wet. Stick to the recommended amount for the best texture.
• Not flipping the chicken: Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures an even crisp on both sides.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

For a restaurant-quality presentation, serve your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a variety of sides that complement its rich, cheesy flavors. Here are some ideas:

• Serve with a green salad: A simple side salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the chicken.
• Pair with roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are great options that can be cooked in the air fryer or oven while the chicken is resting.
• Offer a dipping sauce: Serve the chicken with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for added flavor.
• Add a starch: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or garlic bread to make the meal more filling.

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How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as part of a balanced meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With pasta: Serve the chicken alongside a simple pasta dish like spaghetti with marinara sauce or a creamy Alfredo pasta.
• Over salad: Slice the chicken and serve it on top of a Caesar salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
• In a sandwich: Use the crispy chicken breasts to make a delicious chicken sandwich, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiments.

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Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

1. Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
2. Serve on a cutting board: Place the chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board and slice them in front of your guests for a more rustic, family-style presentation.
3. Top with extra Parmesan: For extra flavor and presentation, grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the chicken just before serving.

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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe Tips

• Adjust the cooking time: Thicker chicken breasts may take longer to cook. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Add breadcrumbs: For an even crispier texture, don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs. They give the chicken an extra crunchy layer.
• Double the recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re cooking for a larger group. Just cook the chicken in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They may require slightly less cooking time, so keep an eye on them.

1. Can I make this dish without an air fryer?

• Absolutely! You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

• For best results, thaw the chicken breasts completely before using. This ensures even cooking and allows the coating to stick properly.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to regain the crispiness.

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Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken without deep frying. The mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist while the Parmesan and breadcrumbs create

a golden, crunchy crust. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to customize with different seasonings, cheeses, or garnishes, making it a versatile dish you can enjoy any night of the week. Give it a try and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness of this air-fried delight!

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