Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you are looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that is both crispy and mouthwatering, look no further than Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This recipe takes tender chicken breasts and coats them in a savory mix of mayonnaise, garlic, and a crunchy Panko-Parmesan crust that will make your taste buds dance. The air fryer is your best friend here, creating that coveted crunch without the need for deep frying. Perfectly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons to love this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, but here are a few of the standout points. First, the air fryer makes cooking effortless, leading to crispy results without all the oil. Second, the combination of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious layered texture that is utterly irresistible. Finally, this recipe is customizable and can easily be doubled for meal prep or entertaining. You can whip it together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or a quick dinner on the weekends.

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup seasoned Panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• Olive oil spray
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

How To Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming the chicken breasts to ensure they cook evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and minced garlic. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps the Panko adhere beautifully to the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Crumb Mixture

In another bowl, mix the seasoned Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. This will be your crispy coating mixture. Make sure it is well-combined for even flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dip it into the mayonnaise-garlic mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on both sides. Then, transfer the chicken to the Panko crumb mixture, pressing down gently to adhere the crumbs to the chicken. Repeat the process with both chicken breasts.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, leaving space around each piece for airflow. Spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil as well.

Step 6: Cook

Air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy. This cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer for best results.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

• Ensure your chicken breasts are evenly sized for even cooking.
• If you prefer a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the Panko mixture.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for the best crispiness.

Variations and Customizations

• Add Italian herbs such as oregano or basil to the Panko mixture for an herby twist.
• Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
• Incorporate additional spices, like paprika or onion powder, for enhanced taste.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, if you have any leftovers, they can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and the crust becomes crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the crust soggy.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture. Just ensure they are cooked through, reaching the same internal temperature.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the seasoned Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, ensuring a similar crunch.

Can I make this in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake these chicken breasts at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown, flipping halfway through.

What sides pair well with this chicken?

Consider serving it with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. Mashed potatoes or quinoa also work wonderfully for a complete meal!

Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that elevates the ordinary chicken breast into something spectacular. With the crispy texture, bold flavors, and ease of preparation, this dish becomes a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you are serving it to family or friends, everyone will be asking for seconds! So grab those ingredients and get ready to impress with an air fryer dish that’s sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!