Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a flavorful, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly golden crust without the excess oil, making it a great choice for a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. The combination of parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy, savory coating, while the garlic mayonnaise adds a creamy, rich finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The air fryer makes it easy to cook the chicken in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven, giving you perfectly cooked chicken with a deliciously crispy crust. This dish is perfect for pairing with a variety of sides, from salads to roasted vegetables, and is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken

Using the air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, creating a lighter version of crispy chicken while still delivering that satisfying crunch.

2. Simple Ingredients

With only a few ingredients, including fresh parmesan cheese and a flavorful garlic mayo, this dish is easy to prepare yet full of flavor.

3. Quick and Convenient

The air fryer cooks the chicken quickly and evenly, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.

4. Flavor-Packed

The parmesan and panko crust offers a deliciously crispy coating, while the garlic mayo enhances the chicken with a creamy, savory kick.

5. Customizable Toppings

You can easily adjust the seasoning or add extra ingredients, such as fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, to suit your personal taste.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into 4 fillets
• Fresh oregano or parsley leaves for garnish

For the Garlic Mayonnaise

• Mayonnaise
• Minced garlic cloves
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Salt to taste

For the Parmesan Coating

• Fresh grated parmesan cheese
• Panko breadcrumbs

Variations

• Add Heat: Spice things up by mixing in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the coating or the garlic mayo for a little kick.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer different herbs, try substituting the oregano or parsley with thyme, basil, or rosemary.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free version and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute to make this recipe dairy-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Mayonnaise

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the fresh grated parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Stir to combine until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with parmesan.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Pat the chicken fillets dry with a paper towel. Spread a thin layer of the garlic mayonnaise over both sides of each chicken fillet. Then, dredge each fillet into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the chicken is fully coated.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley leaves and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Ensure there is enough space around the chicken fillets for air to circulate, which will result in a crispier crust.
• Pat the Chicken Dry: This helps the coating stick better and prevents excess moisture from interfering with the crispy texture.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan works best in this recipe as it creates a richer flavor and a better crust than pre-shredded cheese.
• Check the Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How to Serve

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta. For a more filling meal, consider adding mashed potatoes or garlic bread. You can also enjoy it as a sandwich by placing the crispy chicken fillet on a bun with some extra garlic mayo, lettuce, and tomato for a hearty lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the garlic mayo separately if you have any leftover.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked, uncoated chicken fillets before air frying. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes to bring back its crispiness. You can also reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and will result in a juicier dish.

2. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise?

Yes, store-bought mayonnaise will work fine, but for the best flavor, homemade mayo is always a great option.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses panko breadcrumbs. However, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of using the air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Can I make this recipe without garlic?

Yes, you can skip the garlic if you prefer a simpler flavor, but the garlic mayo does add a nice creamy, savory richness.

6. How do I make this recipe spicy?

Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to either the coating mixture or the garlic mayonnaise to give the chicken some heat.

7. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

You can prepare the chicken by coating it in the parmesan breadcrumbs and garlic mayo, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.

8. What should I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or even garlic bread for a comforting meal.

9. Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for the best flavor and crispiness, but you can use pre-shredded if necessary.

10. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is dry before coating it, and press the parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks during cooking.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a simple yet delicious dish that brings the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and creamy flavors. With minimal ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, it’s a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or using it in a sandwich, this chicken is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to make, versatile, and offers a lighter alternative to traditional fried chicken without losing any of the flavor or crunch.

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