Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic
minced
- 1 cup seasoned Panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley
finely chopped, for garnish
Directions
- 1
Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F.
- 2
Cut chicken breasts in half to make four thin breasts. Place one thin breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound into a thin, even piece with a meat tenderizer. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- 3
In a small bowl, stir together the mayo and minced garlic. Spread the garlic mayo all over the chicken breasts.
- 4
In a shallow bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Place a chicken breast into the bread crumbs and press down. Flip and coat the other side. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- 5
Coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. (Do not use PAM, it can damage some baskets.)
- 6
Place the chicken in the basket and cook for 8 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. (Repeat as needed, you don't want to overcrowd the basket.)
- 7
Remove chicken and serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
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About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible crunch of fried chicken without the guilt? This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers all the crispy, tender goodness you love, transforming a classic comfort food into a weeknight-friendly healthy dinner. You'll love how easily this satisfying meal comes together.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic happens with a few simple techniques that guarantee exceptional flavor and texture. Coating the chicken in mayonnaise keeps it incredibly moist and tender during air frying, while providing the perfect base for the seasoned Panko bread crumbs to adhere. The combination of Panko and grated Parmesan cheese creates a remarkably crispy, golden crust that tastes like it's been deep-fried, but with far less oil.
What to Expect
Prepare for a delightful contrast of textures: an incredibly crunchy, savory exterior yielding to succulent, juicy chicken inside. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of garlicky richness from the minced garlic, the salty tang of Parmesan, and the delicate seasoning of salt and pepper. This dish is designed to be a standout – a "fried" chicken experience that feels indulgent yet fits seamlessly into a balanced meal. With just 15 minutes of prep and another 15 minutes of cooking, this dish is perfect for busy evenings, promising a delicious outcome with minimal effort.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to experiment with the coating to suit your taste. For an extra herbaceous flavor, try adding dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the Panko mixture. While Parmesan is classic, a different hard grated cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago would offer a similar savory depth. If you prefer a touch of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper in the breading can add a subtle kick.
Serving & Context
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fantastic centerpiece for any weeknight dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, appealing finish.