Quick & Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Crispy, golden chicken with a perfectly seasoned parmesan crusted chicken air fryer coating promises an irresistible dinner solution.

The air fryer works magic on this protein-packed meal in minutes.

Tender chicken breasts transform into a delectable centerpiece with minimal effort.

parmesan cheese creates a delightfully crunchy exterior that seals in all the juicy goodness.

Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

The recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and delivers maximum flavor with minimal prep time.

You’ll love how quickly this restaurant-quality dish comes together for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Ways to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Flavor Pairing Paradise: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery roasted vegetables for a complete meal that highlights the crispy chicken's rich parmesan crust.
• Mediterranean Twist: Top the chicken with a zesty Greek salad or fresh tzatziki sauce to add bright, tangy flavors that complement the savory parmesan coating.
• Fresh Herb Finale: Sprinkle chopped basil, parsley, or chives over the chicken just before serving to enhance the dish's aroma and add a pop of fresh green color.
• Wine Companion: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the rich, cheesy chicken and cleanse the palate between bites.

Storing Parmesan Crusted Chicken for Later

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm refrigerated chicken in the air fryer at 350F for 3-4 minutes to maintain its crispy coating. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the crust soggy and tough.
• Place a paper towel in the storage container to absorb excess moisture, keeping the parmesan crust crisp and delicious.

FAQs

• Why use mayo for coating chicken?

Mayo helps create a crispy, golden crust by adding moisture and helping the parmesan mixture stick to the chicken. It also keeps the chicken tender and juicy during cooking.

• Can I use different types of cheese instead of parmesan?

Yes, you can substitute parmesan with romano, asiago, or pecorino cheese for similar flavor profiles. Just ensure the cheese is finely grated for the best coating.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

This recipe is relatively healthier than traditional fried chicken because it uses an air fryer, which requires minimal oil. The lean chicken and controlled ingredients make it a protein-rich, lower-fat option.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Appeal

• Breeze Through Cooking: Air fryer method makes this recipe super quick and simple, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated steps.
• Transform Ordinary Chicken: Parmesan and panko coating adds incredible crunch and flavor, turning basic chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy dish that feels gourmet but requires minimal effort.
• Healthier Comfort Food: Air frying reduces oil usage compared to traditional frying, creating a lighter meal that doesn't compromise on taste or texture, making it a smart choice for health-conscious families.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe works brilliantly for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults with its crispy, cheesy exterior and tender chicken inside.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Ingredient Rundown

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless cuts that create a tender and juicy main dish.

• Panko Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Crispy breadcrumbs and salty cheese that provide a golden, crunchy exterior to the chicken.

• Mayonnaise, Garlic, Salt, Seasonings: A creamy base that helps the coating stick and adds rich flavor to the chicken.
• Fresh Herbs: Green garnish that provides a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken in Air Fryer

Step 1: Power Up The Air Fryer

Plug in your air fryer and set the temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit.

Allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken, which helps create a crispy exterior.

Step 2: Transform The Chicken

Carefully slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets.

Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking.

Step 3: Whip Up Flavor Base

• Mayonnaise
• Minced garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir ingredients until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Create Crunchy Coating

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Dried parsley

Blend thoroughly to create a consistent texture.

Step 5: Dress The Chicken

Generously spread the mayo mixture over each chicken piece, ensuring complete coverage.

Roll the chicken in the panko-parmesan blend, pressing gently to help coating adhere.

Step 6: Air Fry To Perfection

Place chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces are not touching.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Verify internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Plate And Garnish

Transfer chicken to serving plate.

Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or chives.

Serve immediately while crispy and warm.

Tips for Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Cut chicken breasts horizontally for even cooking and tender results, preventing dry edges.
• Use mayonnaise as a flavor-packed adhesive that helps parmesan coating stick perfectly and keeps chicken ultra-moist.
• Always check internal chicken temperature reaches 165F for safe consumption using a meat thermometer.
• Fresh panko breadcrumbs create crispier texture compared to pre-packaged stale breadcrumbs, ensuring maximum crunch.
• Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or chives right before serving to add bright flavor and beautiful visual appeal.

Flavor Options for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Gluten-Free Herb Chicken: Replace panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for a crispy, celiac-friendly version.
• Greek-Style Yogurt Chicken: Swap mayo with Greek yogurt and add oregano, lemon zest for a tangy Mediterranean-inspired coating.
• Low-Carb Almond Crusted Chicken: Use ground almonds instead of panko for a keto-friendly, protein-packed alternative with nutty flavor.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken: Mix Cajun seasoning into the parmesan coating for a zesty, pepper-infused chicken with extra kick.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Crispy air fryer parmesan crusted chicken brings restaurant-quality flavor to home kitchens with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts coated in golden parmesan crust promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 large chicken breasts, halved horizontally

Seasoning and Herbs:

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• Salt to taste

Coating and Binding:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup fresh grated parmesan
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to a crisp 390°F, ensuring optimal cooking temperature for golden-brown perfection.
2. Carefully butterfly chicken breasts by slicing horizontally, then gently pound to create uniform thickness for even cooking.
3. Craft a flavorful base by whisking together mayonnaise, minced garlic, selected seasonings, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl.
4. Create a crunchy coating by combining panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese in a shallow dish, mixing thoroughly.
5. Generously spread the aromatic mayo mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
6. Carefully dredge the mayo-coated chicken in the parmesan-panko mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere completely.
7. Arrange chicken in the air fryer basket, maintaining space between pieces for optimal air circulation and crispiness.
8. Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through the cooking process, until internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
9. Allow chicken to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to seal in juices and maintain tenderness.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil, and serve immediately for the ultimate crispy, flavorful experience.

Notes

• Slice chicken breasts carefully to ensure even thickness, preventing dry or undercooked sections.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for maximum flavor and better coating adhesion compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Pat chicken completely dry before applying mayo mixture to help breading stick perfectly and achieve crispy exterior.
• For gluten-free version, swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs without compromising texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 408
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg